Queenslanders continue to farm smarter under $134 million national program

27/9/2017

Queenslanders continue to farm smarter under $134 million national program

Queensland farmers will soon share in $134 million for a landmark new Smart Farms program under phase 2 of the Coalition Government’s $1 billion National Landcare Program.

Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Luke Hartsuyker, and Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien MP, said the Smart Farms program would support Queensland farmers, fishers and aquaculture operators with grants for the development and adoption of sustainable farming practices to protect natural resources and boost farmgate returns.
 
“Through these grants, the Coalition Government is investing in the productivity and sustainability of Queensland farmers,” Minister Hartsuyker said.
 
“Queensland farmers manage 85 per cent of the state’s land and make a fundamental contribution not only to the economic success of the entire region, but to the growing national and global demand for food and fibre.
 
“Queensland farmers have a hard-earned reputation for sustainable land management and Smart Farms will assist farmers, fishers and community groups to develop and share best practice in their businesses and build their resilience, competitiveness and productivity.”
 
Mr O’Brien said farming communities will continue to benefit from the Government’s investment.
 
“There are three elements to the Smart Farms Program, each will focus on improving soil, vegetation and biodiversity condition and support agricultural systems to adapt to change.
 
“The program supports the sharing of knowledge and achievements, whilst promoting community leadership which will help farmers boost their productivity and better manage natural resources,” said Mr O’Brien.
 
Further details on the Smart Farms program will be available on www.nrm.gov.au and on the National Landcare Program Facebook page.