Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch is encouraging farming groups, research organisations and other eligible industry bodies in Far North Queensland to apply for grants to support projects that enhance traceability in the agricultural produce supply chain.
Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said $3 million in funding under Round Two of the Traceability Grants Program was an opportunity to boost the competitiveness of our farming exporters.
“Australia’s reputation as a source of premium produce has helped our agricultural exporters secure a strong foothold in markets throughout the world,” Mr Littleproud said.
“With greater export market competition and increasing demand from consumers about the origins and safety of produce, effective and modern traceability systems are critical for continued access into these export markets.”
Mr Entsch said the program provides opportunities for successful applicants to carry out projects that enhance product traceability and the competitiveness of our produce.
“Far North Queensland is home to many premium agricultural producers, businesses and organisations eligible to apply for this grant,” Mr Entsch said.
“Traceability is the secret sauce behind brand Australia when it comes to the agricultural supply chain and increasing export opportunities.
“A variety of innovative projects were funded under the first round including an app to enable real time tracking of animals from farm to destination; a portable x-ray scanner for determining seafood provenance and a study to test the authenticity of cider made with Australian juice through a chemical finger printing.”
The second round of the Traceability Grants Program is part of an overall $7 million investment and an important component of the Australian Government’s Ag2030 plan in support of industry’s ambition of $100 billion in farmgate value by 2030.
Round Two of the Traceability Grants Program opens on Wednesday, 25 November 2020 and closes on Thursday, 21 January 2021.
For more details or to apply visit the Community Grants Hub here.
