More horticulture producers across Victoria are set to benefit from the expansion of the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial following the signing of the funding agreement with the Victorian Government.
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said the expansion of the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial would see improved productivity and farm gate returns for even more horticulture producers in Victoria.
“Horticultural netting provides a huge range of benefits,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Properly installed netting can seriously improve both the quality and quantity of fresh food crops, while reducing water usage by up to 30 per cent.
“Recent research has proven that it can reduce the damage from severe weather impacts and can also keep out animals that could damage horticulture crops, like birds and flying foxes.
“The value added for growers by programs like this will help the agriculture industry to become a $100 billion sector by 2030.
“I am pleased that the finalisation of the funding agreement will see $11.2 million in additional Australian Government funding provided to Victorian producers. This brings total funding for netting in Victoria to almost $16 million.
“Victoria’s horticulture sector produced more than $3 billion worth of fruit, nuts and vegetables in 2019-20.”
