Soil science challenge offers grants worth $20 million
Up to $20 million in Federal Government grants is available for innovative research that addresses priority knowledge gaps in soil health and soil management as a part of the ‘Soil Science Challenge’. The new research grants will tackle soil research priorities around carbon dynamics, hydrology, biology and nutrients, and the soil/root interface The Soil Science […]
AUSVEG wants to see carrots broccoli and potatoes on the menu this holiday season
Industry body AUSVEG is urging Aussie consumers to support their local vegetable growers this festive season and buy plenty of high-quality fresh vegetables over the holiday period, including for their Christmas meals and their holiday BBQs. A wide variety of fresh, delicious vegetables will be available at all major retailers, independent grocers and markets this […]
Horticulture growers can access $35 million to purchase and install protective netting
Horticulture growers will be able to access $35 million in Federal Government funding to purchase and install protective horticultural netting. This is an expansion the Horticultural Netting Program trial that was set-up to provide assistance to growers Australia wide. The expansion of the Horticultural Netting Program trial is in place to support resilience against climate change […]
Fruit fly eradication gets $30 million funding to build and manage national resilience
A vital plan to further build resilience into Australia’s fruit fly management has received a $30 million funding boost from the Federal Government. The funding will enable rural and regional communities to fight back against the impacts of fruit fly, a significant pest for our horticultural industries. Australia produces around $6.5 billion worth of crops […]
Fruit and vegetable prices pushed up by COVID disruptions
Increasing fruit and vegetable prices has been seen throughout the COVID period, with both sectors reflecting an increase in costs particularly associated with labour shortages. According to ANZ’s latest Agri Commodity Report, since just prior to COVID’s advent in 2020, retail vegetable prices have increased by over 8% – while fruit prices have actually fallen […]
Weather impact on grain crop could have been much worst
It’s a case of so near yet so far for some grain growers as weather events across the country have seen some uncertainty descend over what was forecast to be another stellar year for the sector. While grains prices continue to perform strongly in comparison to previous seasons, quality is becoming a big factor for […]
Soil management is aided by $13.8 million for over 200 soil extension activities
The final round of the Federal Government’s Smart Farms Small Grants program has now been finalised, with $13.8 million funding 32 grants and over 200 individual activities to improve soil health and soil management. Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud said the grants will help farmers and land managers change the way they […]
PHA revamps online learning by offering three courses
Plant Health Australia (PHA) has recently revamped three online courses that now offer greater interactivity and designs to enhance the online learning experience. The three online courses, Plant Biosecurity in Australia, Pest Reporting and Responses (for Growers and Researchers) now have improved graphics and interactive elements such as pop-up text boxes and flip text boxes. […]
Wine Australia announced the appointment of six non-executive directors
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud has appointed six non-executive directors to Wine Australia until 30 September 2024. Minister Littleproud said the four reappointed directors and two new directors have extensive industry experience and have demonstrated a strong commitment to the Australian wine industry. “Wine and winegrape production is a major agricultural industry […]
Domestic organic farming thrown open to anyone with an interest in its future
Consumers, organic farmers, food manufacturers and exporters are encouraged to have their say on improving Australia’s domestic organic regulatory framework. An upcoming consultation will focus on potential regulatory or non-regulation options across the supply chain, including small businesses. In the spotlight will be regulations around the export of Australian organic produce to overseas markets. This […]