Australia's milk production jumped in April, up 6.4 per cent compared to the same month last year, helped along largely by Tasmanian dairy farmers.
The figures were published in Dairy Australia's April 2020 milk production report, which contains updates on national, state and regional milk production, fat and protein.
Australia's year-to-date production was down 1.2pc, with the exception of Tasmania, which was the only state to record an increase, with a year-to-date increase of 4.8pc.
Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia led the way in terms of production, each notching up increases of 11pc, 10.9pc and 2.1pc respectively for the month of April.
While Queensland, NSW and Western Australia, recorded losses of 19pc, 2.7pc and 3.2pc respectively.
Queensland's milk production continues to dwindle, with the state recording the largest year-to-date loss of 13.1pc.
Queensland dairy farmers have struggled due to the enduring drought, but are hopeful production levels will improve in June/July as conditions continue to ease.
Located near the Sunshine Coast, Kenilworth Dairies' John Cochrane has witnessed the decline in dairy farms in Queensland.
"I'm an auctioneer, and I've been to a lot of dairy clearing sales," he said.
"Dairying is not a get rich quick scheme, the banks have been very patient, but that patience will run out and there are still bills to pay."
Mr Cochrane said the seasons in Queensland had not been kind.
"Queensland farmers have had a rough run with grain prices, weather and milk prices," he said.
"The problem now is that on deregulation day we had 1545 farmers, now with only less than 300 farmers, if we lose 30 farmers, we lose 10pc, and it's not just small farms, it is some big farms also."
- This report is based on a combination of direct reporting from processors, and data sourced from government agencies.