In an industry shaped by constant decision making, volatility and long hours, finding the time to step back and think strategically about the future of a farm business can be difficult.
That’s where Our Farm, Our Plan has made a lasting impact.
Developed by Dairy Australia and proudly supported by Gardiner Foundation, the program helps dairy farmers identify long-term goals, improve business performance and better manage uncertainty through practical strategic planning support.
Since launching in 2019 with seed funding from Gardiner, the program has grown into a national initiative, with more than 780 Victorian dairy farmers and 1,250 farmers nationwide participating.
Helen Quinn, who leads the economics, data and insights team at Dairy Australia, said the program filled an important gap for farmers.
“When we think about the evolving dairy industry and how busy farmers are dealing with daily decisions, this program has really met a niche in allowing farmers to sit back and think about their business from a strategic perspective and plan for the future,” she said.
Using a simple “Now, Where, How, Review” framework, the program supports farmers to document their plans, involve key decision makers and prioritise actions that align with their long-term business and personal goals.
A key feature of the program is its two-year follow-up support, providing one-on-one guidance to help farmers put their plans into action.
Participants have included farm owners at different stages of their careers, along with farm managers and share farmers looking for pathways into the industry.
Helen said one of the most valuable outcomes was helping farmers put their thinking onto paper.
“I often think about people who’ve been through the program and now have a plan that’s actually written down and the impact that will have on their career and where they head with their business,” she said.
The program has also helped Dairy Australia connect with farmers who had not previously engaged with the organisation, opening the door to other programs, tools and support services that can strengthen decision making and improve outcomes for farming businesses and families.
“On behalf of the 1,450 farmers who’ve been through the program, I’m grateful we’ve had funding and visionary support from funders like Gardiner Foundation because it’s enabled us to deliver an exceptionally good program to our farmers,” Helen said.
Watch Helen to see how Our Farm, Our Plan is helping dairy farmers build clearer pathways for the future, strengthen decision making and create more resilient farm businesses and families.