Plans to restructure the dairy industry will be delayed as COVID-19 restrictions won't allow public meetings to be held to discuss the proposals.
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Australian Dairy Plan committee independent chair John Brumby said the restrictions would also mean an vote on industry reforms would be delayed.
"The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting people's lives and businesses worldwide," he said.
But he said despite the challenging environment created by COVID-19, the committee remained committed to the process of industry reform.
There had been considerable feedback, discussion and debate on the final report of the Joint Transition Team on industry structure and advocacy arrangements, which was released in late January.
Mr Brumby said the committee planned to hold a vote by the end of the year, subject to review and remaining mindful of current circumstances.
"I would like to reassure you that we will not be proceeding without the engagement and support of industry, and therefore no decisions on future industry structures will be made at this time," he said.
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But the finalisation of the Australian Dairy Plan would only be slightly delayed.
"Due to the current focus of the dairy supply chain in managing COVID-19 impacts, the finalisation of the dairy plan will be slightly delayed," Mr Brumby said.
Since the plan was released in December, the committee had received valuable feedback online and through face-to-face meetings, he said.
The plan was nearly complete and some revisions were being made in response to feedback received.
Mr Brumby said the committee was committed to delivering the plan in order to start rolling out some key initiatives from July 1, with preliminary work already underway in some areas.
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