The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO), Kate Carnell, has stated that her office is now offering assistance with disputes that fall within the Dairy Code of Conduct.
The mandatory code that took effect from 1 January 2020 aims to give Australian dairy farmers a framework to negotiate a fair price for their product.
This applies to all milk supply agreements entered into, or amended, on or after 1 January 2020.
“The introduction of a Dairy Code and the establishment of a dispute resolution process is a step in the right direction for dairy farmers,” Carnell said. “My office can provide small and family business owners in the industry with information on the Code, as well as options to resolve disputes and access to mediation and arbitration services.
The Code of Conduct aims to provide dairy farmers and other industry participants with avenues for dispute resolution within a fairer framework while also helping them understand their rights and responsibilities.
“In addition…my office can provide broader assistance to small and family businesses that also include disputes under the Franchising, Horticulture and Oil Codes of Conduct,” Carnell said.
