Peak vegetable industry body AusVeg has released a breakdown of what Tuesday's Australian federal budget means for those in the trade.
Among the body's key findings were that drought relief funding would be maintained, with grants of up to A$60,000 available 'to assist primary producers in preparing for climate change and reduced water availability'.
The government will also set aside A$394.9m over the next two years for primary producers who are eligible for ‘Exceptional Circumstances' assistance.
There has also been an extension of funding for the ‘Promoting Australian Produce' initiative, which supports major international events that assist the promotion of Australian agricultural products.
Biosecurity funding has been increased, with A$20m set aside over four years, including the development of a risk-based approach to biosecurity operations.
The government will also fund an additional A$88m over two years to facilitate the development and implementation of more efficient export certification services.
The funding will provide support to industry to adjust to the termination of the 40 per cent subsidy for the cost of export certification and inspection work undertaken by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS).
A cut was announced to funding of the Regional Food Producers' Innovation and Productivity Programme. Funding will be cut by A$5.5m over two years, but the programme will continue.
