Time is running out for farming, fishing and forestry organisations to make applications for Smart Farming Partnerships grants of between $250,000 and $4 million.

The application period closes at 2pm AEDT on 21 December 2017.

The $60 million Smart Farming Partnerships program is part of the $134 million Smart Farms Program, which has been funded through the latest phase of the Australian Government’s $1 billion National Landcare Program.

Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Luke Hartsuyker, said organisations are being encouraged to work in partnership to develop, trial and implement new and innovative practices and tools, which support uptake of sustainable agriculture practices across our agricultural, fishing, aquaculture and farm forestry industries.

“Grants between $250,000 and $4 million are available for farming groups to implement new and sustainable land management practices, to protect the future of Australian farming,” Minister Hartsuyker said.

“These grants demonstrate the Coalition Government’s commitment to support larger projects, and to help agricultural organisations develop effective partnerships with other groups and individuals.

“Australian farmers are on the frontline of Australia’s land management, and care for 61 per cent of our landmass.

“We are backing farming, fishing and forestry organisations to work together to come up with the next big idea which will help the agricultural sector to keep innovating.

“Through the $1 billion National Landcare Program, the Government is backing Australian farmers’ natural innovative instinct.

“Like-minded organisations with innovative and sustainable ideas about how to improve soil, vegetation and biodiversity should apply for a grant under the $60 million initiative.

“The closing date for applications is 2pm AEDT Thursday 21 December—it’s just around the corner. Those looking to secure grants don’t have long, I would encourage organisations to submit their applications as soon as possible.”

Source: Department of Agriculture and Water Resources: Information about the grants and how to apply may be found at www.nrm.gov.au.