Applications are now open for a new program to support the next generation of farmers with scholarships of up to $10,000 for training, study, professional development and on-farm investment.
Launching the Young Farmer Scholarships Program at the Victorian Farmers Federation Annual Conference today, Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford, said the program will help young farmers and farm workers grow their skills and invest in new technologies and business practices, ensuring Victoria’s agriculture sector develops the talent of tomorrow.
Over the next four years, 10-15 young farmers and farm workers each year will receive up to $5000 for training or study, backed by further funds to invest on-farm or in professional development, putting new skills into practice.
Successful applicants will also benefit from ongoing opportunities for long-term networking and support through the Young Farmers Scholarship Alumni.
Ms Pulford also urged young people with an interest in farming and agriculture to apply for a position on the Labor Government’s new Young Farmer Ministerial Advisory Council, with formal expressions of interest now open.
The Council will identify issues affecting agriculture and advise the Minister for Agriculture on opportunities for attracting youth to the sector. It will include a representative from each of the Victorian Farmers Federation Young Agribusiness Professionals and Victorian Young Farmers groups.
Attracting the next generation of farmers to a life on the land is crucial to meeting the growing demand from Asia for high quality, safe produce and improving access to new markets. To take full advantage of these opportunities, Australian farmers will need to develop increasingly sophisticated skills in areas such as business and financial literacy, risk management, and product development.
Expressions of interest for nine motivated council members will open June 26 and close July 19. In line with the Labor Government’s commitment to ensuring gender equity on all paid government boards, at least 50 per cent of council members will be women.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford
“We’re supporting young farmers to grow their skills and invest in new technologies and business efficiencies, ensuring Victoria’s regions retain the talent needed to prosper.”
“Food and fibre are the future of our economy and building a competitive and skilled agriculture workforce are critical to growing and protecting this vital $11 billion sector.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Farmers Federation President, Peter Tuohey
“It's encouraging to see the Andrews Government investing in the next generation of food and fibre producers. It's a not to be missed opportunity for young farmers to up-skill and increase their farm business knowledge."
Reviewed 19 August 2020