Farmers, fishers, community and industry groups in Fairfax can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $100,000 to assist them to protect and improve the condition of soil, vegetation and biodiversity and support agricultural systems to adapt to change.
Member for Fairfax, Ted ‘Brien, called for applications from local farmers and community and industry groups for the competitive $50 million over six years Smart Farms Small Grants program, through the National Landcare Program, which opens today (24 October 2017).
“Our farmers know the importance of protecting and caring for the land so they are able to pass on productive and healthy farms to future generations,” Mr O’Brien said.
“People in Fairfax value what the National Landcare Program has brought to the table since it started in 1989.
“Numerous locals have taken the opportunity to get involved in Landcare over the years and now we have extended the opportunity for more farmers and community groups to apply for grants that will help develop the next generation of smart farms.
“Smart Farms Small Grants will provide grants of between $5,000 and $100,000 to develop and extend new tools, methods and technology for farmers to continue to be at the forefront of land management.
“I know that our farmers are innovators, and the government is supporting that innovative thinking to help local farmers continue to profitably farm smarter, not harder.”
Under the program these grants will:
- protect and improve the condition of natural resources (in particular soils and vegetation and biodiversity)
- increase land managers’ awareness, knowledge, capability and adoption of tools and management practices that will deliver productive and profitable agriculture, fishing, aquaculture and farm forestry industries
- protect Australia’s biodiversity
- assist Australia to meet its obligations under relevant international treaties.
For more information on the grant and how to apply: www.nrm.gov.au
Fast Facts:
- Our farmers manage 61 per cent of Australia’s land.
- Part of the $134 million over six years for the Smart Farm Program through the next phase of the $1 billion National Landcare Program.
- Smart Farm Small Grants are available between $5,000 and $100,000.
- Round One opens 24 October and closes 7 December 2017.