DairyNZ modelling shows the industry’s profitability could be improved by $1 billion per year, or about $1000/ha, by improving financial literacy and management capability. And there is a significant range in profitability between dairy farmers, partly because of management capability.
ASB general manager rural Mark Heer says ASB will work with the DWN and its members to share financial expertise, help build financial capabilities and add value to farming businesses.
“The Dairy Women’s Network acknowledges the value women add to the industry and has created a forum to build and encourage business leadership, share knowledge, seek advice and find professional support,” says Heer.
DWN executive chair Michelle Wilson says the partnership with ASB will help its 4800 members with workshops, webinars and conferences.
“Alongside our prime funder DairyNZ… this additional support is a great opportunity for ASB and our members to work together improving the industry’s financial management practices.”
She says the network’s growth during the past few years signalled a change in the role of women in the industry and the contribution they make to its success, including effectively managing finances.
“In reality dairying women are directors, managers and, in many cases, owners of multi-million dollar businesses which need people with sound financial and business acumen alongside the practical skills of farming and leadership capabilities.”
The Dairy Women’s Network was set up in 1998 to expand the potential of dairy women by providing leadership, inspiration, learning and connection. The network runs Dairy Days workshops, regional groups, conferences and other events.
The ASB gold sponsorship follows Ballance Agri-Nutrients in May confirming its prime sponsorship of the DWN. The DWN also recently got a $180,000 grant from the Ministry of Primary Industries’ Sustainable Farming Fund for a three-year project to develop the first leadership programme for dairying women.
