Improved FarmBis program set to boost training for primary producers nation-wide
The Australian Government will provide more than $26.3 million to extend and improve its successful FarmBis program, which provides training and education to primary producers across Australia.
The move away from a state-based system will see a vast increase in the number of primary producers having access to funding support for education and training.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran, said the 2007-08 Budget will support a new national FarmBis program, to be fully funded by the Australian Government.
“A national approach to FarmBis means that all primary producers will now have access to funding support for education and training, regardless of which state or territory they live in. Previously, the availability of support and types of training depended on individual states providing financial support.”
“There will be an increase to the level of FarmBis for eligible business management training. Program guidelines will be streamlined to provide greater consistency and make it easier for primary producers to access FarmBis.
“Importantly, the program will continue to give producers the flexibility to choose practical training options of direct relevance to their business operations,” said Mr McGauran.
The new national program will begin in New South Wales and Victoria from July 2007 and in the remaining states and the Northern Territory from July 2008 when existing FarmBis programs finish.
“I encourage all producers to take advantage of the generous funding support available under the new FarmBis program to improve their business management skills,” Mr McGauran added.
The Farm Business Management program (FarmBis) helps primary producers manage risks and make productive and profitable changes to their farm businesses. FarmBis provides subsidies for eligible primary producers to obtain training in areas such as business and leadership skills, marketing and natural resource management.