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Grants and awards Agriculture | July 14, 2017

Scholarships available for young farmers

Young farmers across the Lowan Electorate are being encouraged to apply for scholarships aimed at helping them succeed in their food and fibre career.

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP said the Young Farmer Scholarships program provides primary producers under the age of 35 with funding for training and development, as well as on-farm assistance.

“Food and fibre production underpins the well-being of rural communities and is crucial in ensuring Victoria’s economy grows strongly and is competitive in the future,” Ms Kealy said.

Successful applicants can receive up to $10,000, with up to $5,000 for study and a further $5,000 to invest on-farm or in professional development activities.

Ms Kealy said the funding would allow young farmers to improve their management skills as well as prepare for future challenges, while also providing capital investment for their enterprise.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must:

-       Be aged 35 years or under at the time of the application closing date;

-       Be working in a farm business in Victoria at least three days per week, and have been doing this work for the past three months or more;

-       Have at least two years of total experience on-farm; and

-       Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident currently residing in Victoria.

“It is a great opportunity for young farmers to get a start in the agriculture sector,” Ms Kealy said.

“I encourage all eligible young farmers across the electorate to seriously consider applying for a grant”, she said.

More information is available at www.vic.gov.au/youngfarmers. Applications close 30 August 2017.