Horticulture funding netted for Queensland

May 4, 2022

• Agreement providing $10.9 million to expand the Horticultural Netting Program
• The Coalition Government funded program will allow horticulture growers to access 50 per cent of the cost of purchasing and installing protective netting
• Horticulture producers are expected to be able to apply to Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority for grants by end of May

More horticulture producers across Queensland are set to benefit from the expansion of the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial following the signing of the funding agreement between the Coalition and Queensland Governments.

Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud and said the expansion of the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial would see improved productivity and farm gate returns for even more horticulture producers in Queensland.

“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 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 $10.9 million in additional Coalition Government funding provided to Queensland producers. This brings total funding for netting in Queensland to more than $13 million.

“It is disappointing that the Queensland Labor Government won’t take the opportunity to match this funding. I look forward to them getting on with opening the program this month.

“Queensland’s horticulture sector produced more than $3 billion worth of fruit, nuts, and vegetables in 2019-20, said Minister Littleproud.

“Now with the expanded program opening up to all horticulture commodities, we will be better placed to protect our industry for whatever the future may bring.

More information about the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial Expansion in Queensland can be found at: www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/crop-growing/apple-pear-netting

Fast Facts:

• 2019-20 MYEFO provided $25.9 million for the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial, with $2.16 million allocated for Queensland.
• 2021-22 MYEFO expands the Horticultural Netting Program – Trial by providing a further $35 million for the Program, with a further $10.9 million allocated for Queensland.
• 14 grants to Queensland horticulturalists have been approved to date under the initial trial to cover 119.5 hectares of apple and pear crops.
• Horticulturalists in Queensland will be able to apply for grants from the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority and the program will operate until 30 June 2024 or until all the funds are committed.