MDSC’s structure includes an elected Board of Directors (“Executive”) comprising up to six supplier directors and up to one independent director. MDSC also has up to twelve “Councillors” – three from each dairy region.
MDSC’s overarching role is to represent the interests and views of all Lactalis suppliers in Victoria and Tasmania with a collective collaborative voice back to Lactalis.
Benefits to suppliers:
- Farmers working collectively for farmers.
- Strong and active representation of supplier’s interests with Lactalis.
What we do:
- Run the Proud to be a Dairy Farmer program (note that this is open to all – your farm does not need to supply Lactalis).
- Run the Get to Know Lactalis program designed specifically for Lactalis Suppliers - providing a 2 day overview of Lactalis Australia
- Negotiate with Lactalis Australia, on behalf of our suppliers, on conditions of milk supply.
- Develop the next generation of dairy industry leaders through the sponsorship of several leading dairy/agriculture training programs.
- Oversee the operation of the MDSC processes for direct farmer feedback to the MDSC Executive and Fonterra.
- Represent supplier’s interests with Lactalis Australia and work with Lactalis to develop initiatives to support farmers.
- Actively participate in supplier meetings, field days, industry conferences, industry forums.
Our relationship with Lactalis Australia:
MDSC has a formal written ongoing operational agreement with Lactalis Australia.