Australian Dairy Park opens new facility to manufacture infant formula for Chinese market

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Victoria-based dairy company Australian Dairy Park has opened a new infant formula facility in Carrum Downs, with 30 new jobs expected to be generated over the next three years through its operations.

Image: Free Digital Photos user Somchai Som
Image: Free Digital Photos user Somchai Som

Premier Denis Napthine said Australian Dairy Park is another example of a dairy company that is taking advantage of the growing Asian market. The company participated in the Victorian Coalition Government’s trade mission program and has successfully secured a deal to supply infant formula to the Chinese market.

“This deal will see Australian Dairy Park manufacture and export about 3,000 tonnes of formula in its first year with production expected to increase to 5,000 tonnes within three years,” said Mr Napthine in a media release.

“The first year’s output is valued at approximately $30 million and will see 15 full time jobs created immediately with further jobs to be created as production increases.”

The Premier said the opening of Australian Dairy Park’s new plant highlighted the strength of Victoria’s dairy industry and demonstrate the areas for growth in Victorian jobs and economy.

“China is currently Victoria’s fourth largest and fastest growing dairy market. The market for infant formula in China is expected to double over a five-year period from 2012 to 2017, and this presents huge opportunities for Victoria,” Dr Napthine said.

“The opening of this factory is yet another example of why Victoria has an outstanding international reputation as a secure, reliable and competitive producer of high quality food products.”

Member for Carrum Donna Bauer said the new dairy facility signifies confidence in the region’s manufacturing industry.

“This facility will be a fantastic boost for Carrum and for the South East in general,” Ms Bauer said.

“Australian Dairy Park is an example of the type of business investment that will underpin and expand the region’s economy in decades to come.”