Victorian Government increases support for young farmers

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Image credit: Free Digital Photos user num_skyman

The Victorian Coalition Government will allocate $20,000 to the Young Dairy Development Program to be used for further professional development of young dairy farmers.

Image credit: Free Digital Photos user num_skyman
Image credit: Free Digital Photos user num_skyman

According to Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh, the funding will support the grass-roots program to help young people increase their knowledge of dairying, as well as their leadership skills and overall involvement in local community.

“This funding further cements the Victorian Coalition’s commitment to young people in agriculture and our investment in the next generation of food and fibre producers,” Mr. Walsh said, quoted in a media release.

“The Young Dairy Development Program runs discussion group sessions, farm visits, guest speakers and seminars to help young people and those new to the dairy industry to gain more farm knowledge and build valuable networks.”

“The program is a prime example of how we can support young people to become highly productive and profitable farmers, ensuring a bright future for our agricultural industries.”

Adertisement

Mr. Walsh pointed out the example of a dedicated food and fiber careers officer, who began working at the Victorian Farmers Federation with the help of the Victorian Coalition Government funding program. The careers officer will initially pilot programs with schools in South West Victoria to encourage a connection to agriculture and promote pathways into the industry.

“The Coalition Government has committed $240,000 over two years for a careers officer to help schools highlight opportunities for students considering careers in food and fibre,” Mr Walsh said.

“Getting school kids excited about agriculture is just one of the steps we need to take to ensure a bright, prosperous future for Victoria’s food and fibre industry.”

Mr. Walsh has reiterated the Government’s commitment to promote agriculture and support young people once they enter the industry.

“Industry and government alike need to invest in young people if we are going to double food and fibre production by 2030 and have a sustainable and prosperous future for agriculture in Victoria.”

VFF President Mr. Peter Tuohey said the appointment was a great opportunity to showcase agriculture and boost awareness of where a career in the food and fiber industry can take you.

“The opportunities for a career in agriculture are endless. The Food and Fibre Careers Officer will work with secondary schools to highlight the many and varied pathways to a career in food and fibre,” Mr Tuohey concluded.