The National Dairy Farm Assured Scheme, (the Scheme), seeks to address the concerns of all of the interested parties. Dairy farmers wish to see straightforward, practical and cost effective standards. Consumers and retailers need to be reassured that standards are being achieved to provide confidence about the production methods and the safety and quality of milk leaving the farm premises.

Increasingly consumers are seeking reassurance in the areas of animal health and welfare and many physical measurements can be taken on farm. When considered in isolation, these measurements may give a misleading indication of the welfare or health status of the dairy cows in the herd. Instead the Scheme places increased emphasis on the keeping of accurate and meaningful health records, which, with the help of veterinary surgeons, will allow the monitoring of herd health and welfare.

A company trading as National Dairy Farm Assured Scheme Limited has been established to take ownership of the Scheme. The company entity is necessary to effectively manage membership funds, tendering, Scheme developments and protection from legal challenges.

An administration office has also been established to oversee membership, compliance with Scheme rules and the co-ordination of specific assessor training courses and associated independent auditing.

The Scheme will respect the confidentiality of any information provided by first purchasers, and gathered during training courses for assessment personnel, and during audits on farms.