The Allan Labor Government is delivering a new round of grants that will help Victorian farmers manage established weeds and pest animals.

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence today launched the second round of the Partnerships Against Pests Grants Program at the annual Victorian Biosecurity Roundtable.

The new round of funding worth $500,000 will help community groups deliver workshops and resources including fact sheets and videos showcasing best practice management tips. It will also help to promote collaboration between neighbours and wider communities.

Grants worth between $10,000 and $50,000 are available to a wide range of agricultural and environmental volunteering organisations, including Landcare groups and networks.

A further $250,000 has also been allocated to Victoria’s four Community Pest Management Groups – allowing them to expand their reach statewide and strengthen partnerships with local communities.

In Victoria, established weeds and pest animals are estimated to cost agricultural landowners $869 million per year in management and lost production costs – as they cause significant damage to landscapes and waterways.

The new funding will support the Labor Government’s new Biosecurity Strategy, which states the need to reduce the impact of established weeds and animal pests through local action.

For more information on the available grants and to apply, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/support-and-resources/funds-grants-programs.

To learn more about Victoria’s Biosecurity Strategy, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/2023-biosecurity-strategy.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence

“These grants will ensure more people gain access to the latest information to combat weeds and pests – which will help protect our agriculture industry and precious natural resources.”

“Established weeds and pests will continue to pose a huge threat on Victoria’s agricultural operations – so these grants will make sure these communities are prepared.”

“The second round of the Partnerships Against Pests will promote collaboration with communities and deliver local solutions.”

Quote attributable to Victorian Invasive Pest Advisory Board Chair Andrew Maclean

“Greater collaboration in established weeds and pest animal management will see more innovation at play – if your group has a great idea about how to help Victorian farmers and land managers to improve skills, now’s the time to set the wheels in motion.”