VICTORIA will be leading the country in agricultural innovation according to the Liberals and Nationals, with the Coalition committing $8 million to establish the Agriculture Futures Extension Program (AFEP).
The program will be available to grower groups across Victoria to deliver programs that assist farmers in adopting new technologies and practices.
The programs will boost profitability, productivity, and environmental sustainability for Victorian primary producers.
The funding will allow industry groups to tailor programs for participants, with the focus of AFEP's delivery including:
• Awareness of agriculture's impact on the environment and carbon emissions;
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• Adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and practices;
• Supporting emerging farmers (such as young people and women), and;
• Diversifying domestic and export markets.
Shadow Minister for Agriculture Peter Walsh said the fund would deliver innovative programs to drive greater productivity.
"Victoria's $17.8 billion agricultural industry relies on innovation to constantly adapt to a changing environment," Mr Walsh said.
"This funding will allow industry groups to deliver programs that encourage on–farm innovation and adoption of new technology.
"Our farmers are the stewards of the land, and the Agriculture Futures Extension Program will assist them in meeting their business and net zero ambitions."
It is estimated the program will be able to deliver 40 separate programs through to 2027.
The announcement follows the Liberals and Nationals' commitment to establishing a new regional Victorian collaborative soil research centre and programs such as Birchip Cropping Group's Nexus program.
