Queensland Dairy Organisation’s Fair Go label push hits hurdle

The Queensland Dairy Organisation’s Fair Go label scheme has hit a stumbling block in a battle between big processors and smaller dairies.

Queensland Dairyfarmers Organisation president Brian Tessmann.

Queensland’s dairy leader has labelled a push by the big processors to block a promotional campaign as a deliberate stumbling block.

After a six-month process, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission granted authorisation for the Queensland Dairy Organisation’s Fair Go Dairy scheme in March.

The qualifying products must contain at least 80 per cent unprocessed milk produced by Queensland cattle and bought from a Sunshine State farmer for not less than a “sustainable and fair” price calculated by QDO.

However, the Australian Dairy Products Federation lodged an application with the Australian Competition Tribunal seeking to set aside the ACCC’s determination.

QDO president Brian Tessmann said the move by the ADPF was unlikely to kill the Fair Go scheme, only to act as a delay tactic so it cannot be rolled out sooner against the larger players.

“It’s a very disappointing move by the Dairy Products Federation. The Fair Go scheme won’t be stopped — they probably know that,” he said.

“What it does is slow down the roll out, tying it up in red table so we’re not able to start with the labelling sooner.”

In April, an ADPF spokeswoman said: “Information regarding the application, including copies of the ACCC’s determination, ADPF’s application to the Tribunal and further documents filed in connection with the application, will be available at the Tribunal website.

“ADPF has brought this application for review after careful consideration for the wellbeing of the dairy industry.”

Last year, ACCC deputy chairman Mick Keogh said the scheme was likely provide greater clarity for consumers, as well a small increase in retail competition in Queensland.

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