Legislative Council, Thursday 10 November 2023

Ms FORREST question to MINISTER for PRIMARY INDUSTRIES and WATER, Ms PALMER

With regard to the announcement by Canadian-owned company Saputo Dairy Australia regarding a so-called 'strategic review' of the King Island Dairy facility:

(1) Has the minister had any communication with Saputo regarding this review and the likely impact on dairy producers on King Island?

(2) Should Saputo decide to sell or close King Island Dairy operations, would the Government consider targeted support to assist impacted King Islanders, including those who run dairy herds?

ANSWER

Mr President, we are aware of Saputo Dairy Australia's announcement of a review into its King Island Dairy operations. We note this is one of a series of such reviews the company has been undertaking across its Australian operations to enhance its efficiency and strength in competitiveness.

I have been advised that the Department of State Growth has been in discussions with Saputo for some time on the challenges faced by the King Island Dairy operation, especially given age of the facility and its remote location.

We continue to work closely as a government with Saputo as they progress their review of the King Island operations. Saputo has made it clear no decisions have been made at this time.