When former Victorian Agriculture Minister Keith Hamilton reflects on the creation of Gardiner Foundation, he recalls a time of major change, and the resolve it took to ensure that the benefits of dairy deregulation flowed back to the people it affected most.
“When money comes into governance, treasury likes to make sure they look after it. But this money came from the dairy industry, and we thought it should go back to the dairy industry.”
As Minister for Agriculture from 1999 to 2002, Keith oversaw one of the most transformative moments in the sector’s history: the deregulation of Australia’s dairy industry. Working alongside Treasurer John Brumby and Premier Steve Bracks, he helped secure a fair outcome for Victorian dairy farmers, built on consultation and trust.
“I was very much wanting to ensure that whatever outcome we got was in the best interests of dairy farmers. We conducted a poll across Victoria, and more than 90% supported deregulation. Once that was clear, we had to decide what to do with the proceeds.”
The sale of key industry assets, including the iconic Big M brand, delivered an unexpected windfall of $62 million, funds that would ultimately form Gardiner’s endowment.
“It was a great surprise, I can assure you. I wanted to make sure those funds were used positively and preserved for the future. That’s how the Gardiner Foundation was born, to support the dairy industry and its communities for generations to come.”
From the beginning, Keith believed that a strong industry depends on strong communities.
“It’s not just about the farmers. It’s the schools, the churches, the local pubs, all the things that make up a country community. That’s what keeps people happy to live there.”
Today, as he looks at Gardiner’s impact 25 years on, Keith says he’s proud of how wisely the Foundation has managed its funds and how deeply its work has reached into rural Victoria.
“It’s really pleasing to see how much has been achieved, scholarships, community halls, fire brigades, young people finding opportunities. Gardiner has supported so many people and still has a very healthy balance. It’s been of great importance not only to the dairy industry, but to all of Victoria.”
Watch Keith’s story below to hear how Gardiner came to be, and why its legacy continues to strengthen the heart of Victoria’s dairy communities.