Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes has announced today the programs, Upskill and Invest – Young Farmers scholarship for study and training in the agriculture industry for farmers under 35. Over the next three years, the Victorian government will invest $375,000 into the program.

The program offers up to $10,000 to support training and study in areas such as business and risk management, genetics and pasture management development. 63 farmers have received the scholarship since 2015 across a range of agriculture sectors in Victoria.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in 2017, only 13 percent of Victorian farmers are under 35 which is three years younger than the nationwide average age of 56.

However, Jaclyn’s mission is ambitious. “The future success of our agriculture sector rests with our young farmers,” she said.

She also spoke about the importance of meeting the demand for high-quality produce from “around the world” in the coming years.

“They [young farmers] bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table that are based on lived experience and a real passion for the sector,” she said.

“The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the importance of Victoria’s farmers and food producers and supporting the work young farmers are doing will help us meet the growing demand for Victoria’s high-quality produce from right around the world.”

Once recipients complete their studies, they will receive further funding of up to $5,000 to put their skills to use in fields such as professional development and business planning or to invest in on-farm practices, equipment and technology.

There are more scholarships available for young farmers through a range of other programs. To find out more and to apply for a scholarship, visit vic.gov.au/youngfarmers Applications close on Sunday, 14 June.

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