Proud to be a Dairy Farmer
Inspiring & supporting the next generation of dairy farmers to get a head start
Designed for young dairy farm employees (20-30 yo) excited about working in the industry and eager to learn more, the program runs over three days to showcase all the industry has to offer.
For farm owners and operators, it’s a great opportunity to invest in the development of your crucial staff to ensure their ongoing commitment to your business and the industry.
Overall, the program aims to attract, support, and retain young people in the dairy industry by empowering them to make long-term decisions about their future, and how to go about it.
Entering its 6th year in 2026, the program has so far supported 103 participants from every state in Australia, from farms supplying 22 different processors. The program is open to staff and employees of ALL Australian dairy farms – from small family farms to large Corporates.
Applications will be open from 6 - 31 October 2025 for the 2026 Program (which will be held on 23-25 Feb 2026)
Key Dates
6 October 2025
Applications open for the 2026 Program
November 2025
Successful applicants will be contacted
23-25 February 2026
Program dates
The Program
Who should apply?
Are you (or a family member or employee aged 20-30) someone who:
- Is excited about working in dairy and eager to learn more, and
- Will benefit from seeing the path and benefits of a career in dairy, and
- Has been working in dairy for at least two years, but not yet made any significant financial investment into dairy, and
- Has commenced or completed a Cert 3 or 4 in Ag/Dairy Production (not essential, but preferred), and
- Has a great attitude about dairy and wants to meet other like-minded people, and
- Will actively contribute their own thoughts and experiences throughout the program.
The Experience
- A three day experience (including travel) held in Melbourne with farm and factory visits in Gippsland
- Hear from industry experts and learn from the best in the field
- Insights into the dairy industry's structure, role in Australia and it's impact
- Healthy Minds - learn about the importance of mental health
- Networking opportunities with like-minded people from all over Australia
- A gala dinner with industry leaders
Farm Business
Learn about operating structures (Share, Lease, Equity & Partnerships)
Milk Processing
What happens to your milk once it leaves the farm.
Healthy Minds
Creating a mentally healthy workplace and community
Industry Structure
Understand our industry - from processors to industry bodies
Farm Visits
Visiting Farms and local dairy factory / manufacturing sites
Networking
Connect with like-minded people in an exciting multi-day program
Testimonials
Past Experiences
Photo Gallery
2023
2024
2025
Our Story
Proud to be a Dairy Farmer is proudly owned, run and funded by farmers, for farmers. Spearheaded by the Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council, we are a representative group of 17 dairy farmers from Victoria and Tasmania.
We are proud to support all young dairy farmers regardless of where you’re based or which processor your farm supplies.
In 2024 we welcomed Gardiner Foundation as a major sponsor. We also thank and acknowledge Fonterra Australia for supporting this program.
Contact Us
Need help?
Please get in touch at info@proudtobeadairyfarmer.com.au
Follow us on social
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for all the latest news and application advice