Latest news
Keeping COVID-Safe in Horticulture during Harvest
Agriculture Victoria, WorkSafe Victoria, the Labour Hire Authority, the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions and the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) are holding regular joint webinars prior to harvest to assist horticulture producers to navigate the latest requirements relating to COVID-19 and COVID Safe plans.
Their operational staff can answer your questions and provide additional information.
Soil Moisture Monitoring Update
Earlier this year Food & Fibre Gippsland was successful in a bid for funding from the Commonwealth Government’s Future Drought Fund for a demonstration site of soil moisture sensors.
The project, “Growing Gippsland’s Drought Resilience with Technology and Better Soil”, aims to build drought resilience among Gippsland’s vegetable producers, as well as reduce the risk of damaging nutrients and sediment finding their way into the Gippsland Lakes.
Seasonal Sign On Bonus Program
Victorian horticulture businesses still have time to receive extra support during the summer harvest to attract and retain new workers – but they must hurry, the Summer Seasonal Sign-on Bonus program closes on 31 December.
Horticultural businesses can promote the Summer Seasonal Sign-on Bonus as an additional incentive for jobseekers to try their hand at harvest work.
Agriculture Resilience and Recovery Program
The Victorian Government is fast-tracking the road to recovery for agriculture and food supply chain businesses in rural and regional Victoria.
The new program provides grants of between $10,000 and $300,000 to support on-farm infrastructure, business upgrades and new facilities to enable businesses to adapt their operations to COVIDSafe settings.