The Hon Michelle Rowland MP
Minister for Communications
Member for Greenway
Senator Anne Urquhart
Chief Government Whip in the Senate
Senator for Tasmania
MEDIA RELEASE
Consultation closes soon on new Federal Government grants program to support on-farm technology
The Albanese Government is seeking feedback from local farmers and equipment service providers in Braddon on the new $30 million On Farm Connectivity Program funded through the October Budget.
Submissions close on the On Farm Connectivity Program discussion paper on 3 March 2023. To make a submission visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say
The Program will contribute towards the cost of an equipment service provider purchasing, installing and delivering some initial training on equipment which extends connectivity on farms and agri-businesses – including in the forestry and fisheries sector – so primary producers can take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology.
The Program is part of the Albanese Government’s Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, committing funding over three years to grow Australia’s agricultural sector through extended connectivity for farmers and their innovative machinery.
The first round of funding is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2023 through a grant application process.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
“The agriculture industry is a core part of Australia’s economy, employing thousands of people, feeding millions more, and is a trusted supplier for many importers overseas.
That’s why the Albanese Government is taking action to back our hardworking farmers to stay at the cutting edge of agricultural innovation.
Our On Farm Connectivity Program will provide support for our multi-billion agricultural sector to be able to take advantage of connected machinery to drive increased productivity.
Feedback from primary producers on the ground who know the sector better than anyone else is essential for the successful design and implementation of this Program, and I encourage them to have their say”.
Quotes attributable to Senator Anne Urquhart:
“I welcome the Albanese Government’s significant investment in regional communications and am keen to work closely with our primary producers to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world to build a better Braddon.”
“This is a great opportunity for local primary producers and agri-businesses right across the North-West, West Coast and King Island to shape how farmers can take advantage of innovative technology in their on-farm work.
Friday, Feb 24, 2023
MEDIA CONTACTS:
ADAM BOIDIN (Rowland) 0406 009 019 [email protected]
SUSAN WALLACE (Urquhart) 0418372198 [email protected]
