APPLICATIONS for grant funding are now open for round two of the Rural Research and Development (R&D) for Profit Programme.
Agriculture and Water Resources Minister Barnaby Joyce, said up to $50 million in funding was available under round two of the programme to deliver R&D projects to boost profitability and productivity.
“The R&D for Profit Programme is a $100 million Coalition election commitment, with a further $100 million committed as part of the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper to extend the programme out to 2020-2021," Mr Joyce said in a statement.
“The programme encourages collaboration between industry, researchers and Rural Research and Development Corporations (RDCs) on projects that will deliver real benefits on the farm.
"The focus is on developing and delivering cutting edge research and technologies in a way that is practical and accessible for primary producers.
“Round one of the programme saw more than $26 million in grants approved that will deliver tangible benefits at the farmgate, including better control methods for major weeds that threaten profitability, and resources to support farmers identify and capitalise on opportunities in export markets.
“For example, within my own electorate the University of New England in Armidale, NSW, is collaborating on a $3.4 million Horticulture Innovation Australia project.
"The project will integrate the latest imaging and robotics technologies to provide mango, avocado and macadamia farmers with decision-support tools to help improve production and profit.
"The data collected through this project, and the tools it develops, will help farmers to predict fruit quality and yield, and to monitor tree health including early detection of pests and disease outbreaks."
Round two projects will be required to address one or more priorities in the following research, development or extension areas:
- advanced technology to enhance innovation of products, processes and practices across the supply chain
- biosecurity to improve understanding of pest and disease pathways
- soil, water and managing natural resources to manage soil health, improve water use efficiency, sustainably develop new production areas and improve resilience
- adoption of R&D focusing on flexible delivery of extension services that meet primary producers’ needs.
All 15 Rural RDCs can apply for funding under the programme.
To be eligible, RDCs must partner with one or more researchers, universities, research agencies, funding bodies, businesses, producer groups, or not-for-profit organisations, and provide a contribution (cash or cash and in-kind) at least equal to the requested Commonwealth grant funding.
Applications for Rural R&D for Profit Round two must be received by the Department of Agriculture by 5pm (AEST) on December 1.
