January 30, 2020
Embattled Federal Minister Bridget McKenzie is inviting applications for another grants program … this time to help children understand more about farming.
On Thursday, Senator McKenzie – who is Agriculture Minister – invited applications from State farming organisations for grants under the $5 million “Kids To Farms” program, part of the Federal Government’s $10 million “Educating Kids About Agriculture” election commitment.
Senator McKenzie said children were increasingly removed from directly experiencing life on the land, which was a barrier to choosing agriculture as a career and allowed myths to perpetuate.
“Australian agriculture has a bright and prosperous future so we need to place a high value on educating young people about where, and how, their food and fibre is produced,” she said.
“That’s why we are delivering on an election commitment and investing up to $5 million towards the ‘Kids To Farms’ program which is all about bringing farms and kids closer together.
“I don’t want kids to think cotton is made from animals or that yoghurt grows on trees.
“We need to think now about the farmers of tomorrow and how important it is for kids to have a greater understanding of the mighty contribution agriculture makes to Australia’s way of life, regional communities and the economy.
“This new program will encourage young people to better understand and get excited about agriculture including the many career opportunities it offers.
“Our future workforce will operate drones, use satellite technology, and deploy precision agriculture techniques.
“We need more opportunities for young people to engage directly with agriculture, to see their food and fibre growing, and hear first-hand about our increasingly innovative industry that sustains our land as well as feeding and clothing the world.”
Senator McKenzie said “consortia applications” were welcome and interested parties should contact their State farming organisation to express their interest in partnering on projects.
Grant applications opened on Thursday and will close on February 26.
Details about the program and how to apply are available on the Community Grants Hub
