Agricultural shows and field days will get a boost as they emerge from lockdowns and shutdowns as part of a new round of funding from the Liberal National Government.
Agricultural shows and field days will get a boost as they emerge from lockdowns and shutdowns as part of a new round of funding from the Liberal National Government.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said shows and field days supported jobs that helped connect the regions and the cities.
“Our regions and farmers are the powerhouse of our economy and shows and field days are important in attracting investment and workers,” the Prime Minister said.
“We’ve all missed our big Royal Shows and our local ag festivals and this investment is about ensuring we don’t lose them.
“These events aren’t just about showbags, rides and competitions, they bring regional leaders together to share skills and experience and they open doors for new jobs and investments.
“Ag shows and field days also help people from the cities understand and appreciate where their food and fibre comes from.
“Stronger regions means a strong economy for Australia and a stronger future which is why this investment is so important.”
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said $2.8 million was there to support show societies and field days after a couple of tumultuous years.
“Many of our shows and field days have had to cancel due to COVID-19, which has meant a loss of revenue,” Minister Littleproud said.
“But it’s also meant that rural and regional communities have missed out.
“Agricultural shows and field day events are an integral part of the social fabric for rural and regional communities.
“They contribute more than $1 billion to the economy annually, attract more than six million patrons and are supported by more than 50,000 volunteers.
“Events cancelled in 2022 due to COVID-19 will be able to seek one-off reimbursements for operational costs.
“It will also support events cancelled in 2021 that did not apply under Round 2.
“We know regional communities have done it tough over the last two years. We’ve listened, and we’re doing our bit to help.
“This brings to almost $100 million our support for shows, including the recently announced $15.4 million second round of the Agricultural Shows Development Grant Program.”
The funding will support events cancelled in 2022 due to COVID-19, as well as events cancelled in 2021 that did not apply for previous assistance.