Investing in agriculture’s next gen of smart minds

The Hon David Littleproud MP
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management
  • 2021 Science and Innovation Awards grants now open
  • Up to $242,000 for young people in agriculture, fisheries and forestry
  • Individual grants of up to $22,000 across multiple categories
  • A $242,000 grants program, targeted at the sharpest young minds in agriculture, fisheries and forestry, opens today.

    Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the 2021 Science and Innovation Awards help bring the next generation of big ideas to life, with projects sought from 18-35 year old researchers, scientists, innovators and others active in the agriculture sector.

    “2020 has made one thing clear: there’s no shortage of complex challenges facing this nation and our agricultural industries,” Minister Littleproud said.

    “The blueprint for success, however, is simple: work hard, work smart and invest in the next generation.

    “That’s why the Australian Government is funding individual grants of up to $22,000 across 11 categories to help develop the best new ideas.

    “Last year’s Ministerial award winner, Dr Meagan Craven from Deakin University, was recognised for her project investigating whether pigeon milk can combat Salmonella outbreaks on Australian egg farms.

    “This project is a great example of innovation. It demonstrates how looking outside the box and coming up with unique solutions can lead to real improvements to our agricultural industries. I can’t wait to see what’s next.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.