The Dairy Adjustment Authority (DAA) expects that all dairy farmers will have received their Dairy Structural Adjustment Program (DSAP) application forms by next Thursday 6 July, according to Chair of the DAA, Mr Patrick Musgrave.

"A final mailing of DSAP application packs to nearly 1000 dairy farmers has been delayed due to technical difficulties with data", Mr Musgrave said.

"We have resolved these difficulties and the last of the applications will be in the mail tomorrow. This will complete the first stage of the program."

"I recognise the concerns that some dairy farmers have expressed over recent weeks, and I appreciate their patience. They will have five weeks to complete the forms and return them to the Authority before 17 August."

If any dairy farmer eligible to apply for a DSAP payment has not received an application pack by Thursday 6 July they are requested to urgently contact the DAA Help Line 1800 503 603.

The requirement for all dairy farmers to undertake a farm business assessment remains, and it is preferable that the declaration form stating that this assessment has been completed is mailed to reach the DAA by 17 August also. The Farm Business declaration forms can be mailed later to reach the DAA by 16 February next year, but no payment rights will be granted to dairy farmers until the declaration has been received by the DAA.

"Producers should concentrate on filling in and returning their DSAP application forms as the first priority, and arrange for a qualified financial adviser to help them with their farm business assessment", Mr Musgrave said.

"It is a busy time of the year, with GST tax changes adding to the normal workload. I urge dairy farmers across Australia to consider filling in their forms as a high priority."

"There is only one chance for them to get their forms in and be eligible for a payment. No applications will be considered after 17 August," he concluded.