The Albanese Labor Government is delivering $1.7 million to improve the climate resilience of farmers in the Melbourne Foodbowl - with a new project launched today by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP.
Project Ag-Resilience, to be delivered across the Port Phillip and Western Port region by the Melbourne Water Corporation, will bring together partnerships in Landcare networks, primary industry groups and local government.
It will deliver on-farm trials, including on sustainable food practices, biological fertilisers and targeted planting, through to workshops, peer learning, and decision-support tools.
This will help farmers boost their farm productivity, improve soil health, and protect biodiversity, paving the way for a sustainable future.
Project Ag-Resilience is part of the Albanese Labor Government's $302.1 million Climate-Smart Agriculture Program funded through the Natural Heritage Trust.
Hotter and drier climate conditions during 2001 to 2020 reduced average broadacre farm profits by 23%, equating to about $29,000 per farm annually, according to the latest ABARES' modelling.
That's why the Albanese Labor Government is working closely with farmers and producers to improve their climate resilience - safeguarding our food security and our trusted position in the global trade market.
The Government is delivering practical opportunities on the ground, like this project, supporting farmers to grow more sustainability, prepare for future challenges and continue producing the world-class products Australians are proud of.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP:
"Farmers and landowners are at the frontline of climate change. This project will equip them with tools they need for years to come.
"We are investing in the future of sustainable agriculture in a region that supplies food for the people of Melbourne and much of Australia.
"This is a great example of what can be done when farmers and key organisations are brought together to achieve a common goal.
"The purpose of this project is to help our farmers become more environmentally sustainable and to reap the financial rewards of doing so well into the future.
"This project is just one of many across the country our Government is backing to support the climate resilience of our farmers and producers."
