Member for Burdekin Dale Last has welcomed a $30 million boost to on-farm technology under the launch of the Crisafulli Government’s Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund.

Commercially viable innovation with the aim of improving productivity, resilience and profitability across Queensland’s primary industries will be supported under the new fund as the Crisafulli Government works towards the ambitious target of increasing the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030.

Mr Last said the fund provided an opportunity for Burdekin’s agricultural sector to bring their innovative ideas to life.

“The Burdekin’s agriculture sector has been at the forefront of innovation particularly in our sugar cane and horticulture industry and the benefits of that innovation flow into communities like Ayr and Home Hill,” Mr Last said.

“We know when our agricultural sector is operating efficiently and productively, we see that investment flow right through to our small businesses and community groups which is why the Crisafulli Government is backing our farmers to not grow, not just now but into the future.”

“By investing in innovation in this state we are able to strengthen commercialisation pathways and build platforms for practical technologies that make a real difference at the farm gate and ultimately the Queensland economy.”

Mr Last said the Sowing the Seeds of Farming was a game changer for the future of farming in its ability to drive and deliver the next generation of Ag Tech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability.

“Whether it is improving the efficiency of on farm practices, providing safer workplaces or embracing technology, our farmers have a global reputation for remaining at the cutting edge of production and exports,” Mr Last said.

“I’m proud to back the Crisafulli Government’s initiative to improve productivity, resilience and profitability across Queensland’s primary industries, while helping to attract additional private investment. 

Businesses interested in exploring how the fund can support its growth can provide information via the QIC website for review: https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds