A new horticulture hub in the Goulburn Valley will deliver innovative agriculture solutions and create dozens of local jobs, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green today opened the Tatura Science and Business Incubation Hub - a high-tech, digitally-enabled training and work space, part of the Tatura SmartFarm and Horticulture Innovation Precinct.
The $1.25 million project - funded by the Labor Government - provides a new home for Agriculture Victoria's world-leading horticulture scientists, students and AgTech start-ups to come together and enhance commercial opportunities.
Initially, 38 new science and research jobs will be created at the hub, with a further 15 expected over the next three years. As many as 10 agri-business positions will also open up as part of the adjoining Tatura Innovation Precinct.
The training and work space will enable more opportunities for strategic partnerships between government, industry, agribusiness, tertiary institutions and schools.
Tatura SmartFarm's Horticulture Innovation Precinct will increase the number of training sessions, seminars and tours, which will deliver tourism and economic benefits to the region.
The Tatura Science and Business Incubation Hub is supported by Smarter, Safer Farms - a $20 million Government program to improve safety and skills outcomes for Victorian farmers.
The Government has also released a ten-year Agriculture Strategy to help boost the economy with key innovation and sustainability projects.
For more information, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green
"This new hub is a fresh space for our horticulture scientists and industry to come together to collaborate and develop new ideas and skills."
"We're investing in our agricultural sector and local communities to unlock economic opportunities that will benefit the whole state."
