Anna Sing

Finding policy solutions that not only improve environmental outcomes, but also work well in different kinds of farm systems, is a very rewarding part of her role, says Anna.

Born (literally) and raised on a Waikato dairy farm outside of Morrinsville, Anna’s now based in DairyNZ’s Wellington office. She reviews and provides a dairy perspective on regional policy for the Lower North Island, mainly relating to what regional councils are drafting in their plans around freshwater regulations. “I also work on national regulations developed by central government, such as Freshwater Farm Plans.

“DairyNZ’s policy advisors highlight the impact and practicalities local- and national-level government policies could have on dairy farms. Then we assist those drafting the regulations to make them more pragmatic so farmers can improve environmental outcomes from their farm systems.

“Our team also reviews consultation materials to understand the implications for dairy farmers and the sector; puts forward alternatives that achieve the same intent, with less disruption to farmers; and supplies feedback on policies and plans, through submissions, workshops, hearings and meetings with regulators.” Regulations are an important part of managing resources. However, the common process of developing, drafting, implementing, repealing and redrafting them can reduce the certainty farmers need to operate their businesses effectively.

“Also, even when parties want the same outcome, they’re often coming from different perspectives,” Anna says. “However, there’s a better chance of reaching a solution that can meet all of the objectives, if everyone works in collaboration.”

That’s why DairyNZ works alongside farmers in the sector, to gather a breadth of perspectives that can help get to the core of an issue quickly, says Anna.

“Early on in a policy process, farmers’ voices can have a much bigger impact than industry presence - that’s a really valuable time for them to get involved. DairyNZ then either advocates on their behalf, or supports farmer groups to do so.

“Either way, once processes move towards details and trade-offs, our Policy team provides credible, science-based evidence into the mix. It’s all about promoting solutions that farmers can realistically carry out.”

• Find out more about DairyNZ's other policy team members.
• Learn more about DairyNZ's policy, advocacy and regulation work on behalf of farmers.