The Budget’s focus on jobs, infrastructure and the environment has hit the spot, but the devil will be in the detail for
the dairy sector, says DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle.
“Today’s budget includes some promising and practical initiatives to create jobs, while enhancing New Zealand’s
environment,” said Dr Mackle.
"Dairy farmers will be particularly pleased to see a $19.3 million investment to place 10,000 people into primary sector
jobs. Our sector is already facing a 1000-person skill shortage that will be greatly exacerbated by COVID-19 and an
inability to recruit migrant staff.
“With unemployment forecast to hit 9.8 percent by September, we are hoping many kiwis will consider a career in our
world-leading dairy sector. DairyNZ’s new career changers campaign, Go Dairy, will ensure new entrants to the sector
will hit the ground running.
“A $3 billion dollar investment in infrastructure is welcome news for rural New Zealand – but while the dollars are
there, the detail isn’t. DairyNZ will be engaging with Government in coming weeks and months to ensure water storage,
rural broadband and enhanced mobile coverage are priorities.
“While a significant infrastructure spend is required, we are incredibly conscious these projects are funded by debt
that will need to be repaid by future generations,” said Dr Mackle.
“We need to ensure that any investment is strategic, has a long-term vision and will pay dividends for years to come.
Investing in a coordinated national water storage strategy is an example of a project that ticks all these boxes.
“A coordinated approach to water storage would help unlock economic potential, ensure land-use flexibility, and increase
the resilience of our rural communities in the face of drought and a changing climate.
“DairyNZ is also happy to see substantial investment will be delivered in partnership with local government, business
and farmers. We believe this will ensure money reaches the right places and delivers more bang for tax-payer buck.
“Fencing, planting and pest eradication are all things dairy farmers have been focusing on for well over a decade and
the Government funding will be a real shot in the arm to help further improve water quality, climate and biodiversity
outcomes,” Dr Mackle concluded.