July 30, 2015

Grants to build partnerships from paddock to plate

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, is urging local producers and agri-businesses to apply for the Andrews Labor Government’s new $20 million Food Source Victoria program.

Ms Thomas made the announcement from Angelica Organic Farm in Glenlyon which produces award winning gourmet garlic, herbs and seasonal vegetables served in cafes, restaurants and provedores across the Daylesford-Macedon region and Melbourne.

Forming a key election commitment for the Andrews Government, the program will support producers 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 across Macedon 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. Applications for the program are now open.

For more information visit www.vic.gov.au/foodsource

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