Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP, is urging local producers and agri-businesses to get ready to apply for the Andrews Labor Government’s new $20 million Food Source Victoria program ahead of applications opening on 1 July, 2015.
A key election commitment, the program will support producers in Western Victoria to work together to market their produce, grow our local industries and boost exports.
Food Source Victoria will allocate $18 million in grants to support agri-food businesses across regional Victoria to conduct research, develop marketing plans, produce innovative products and build skills to better compete in export markets.
By working together the program will adopt a “paddock to plate” approach, capitalising on new opportunities and growing global demand for Victorian produce, supporting our
farmers and growers to lead the world.
Grants will be available to support alliances of agri-food businesses in regional Victoria and value chain partnerships. Successful applicants will be eligible for up to $5000 grants for planning and up to $250,000 for projects.
In addition, Food Source Victoria’s scholarships program will provide $2 million to better equip regional Victorians to develop the skills and knowledge they need to develop in-demand products and grow our economy.
The scholarships will target innovative Victorians who live in regional Victoria and work in
agri-business, allowing them to expand into new markets or launch a new product, which will boost exports and create jobs.
At least $1 million will be allocated to support women across regional Victoria and in Western Victoria to develop their skills and continue contributing to Victoria’s food and fibre sector.
Food Source Victoria is funded through the Labor Government’s $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, with applications open from 1 July, 2015. For more information visit www.vic.gov.au/foodsource
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP
“This is a fantastic opportunity for producers, processors and exporters in Western Victoria to work together with the support of the Government, to find new opportunities to boost exports and build capacity.”
“The scholarships will help our up and coming local agri-business professionals build their skills and expand their businesses.”
“With applications opening from 1 July, I would urge all interested producers and agri-businesses in Western Victoria to find out more information about how they can benefit
from Food Source Victoria.”