Grant to milk the most out of exports

Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce, today announced a $984,500 boost to export access for small dairy businesses under the Coalition Government’s Package Assisting Small Exporters programme.

This grant to Dairy Australia delivers on a key Coalition Government election commitment to support small exporters through a $15 million four year programme.

“This funding represents practical help to drive real export returns to the farmgate for our dairy farmers,” Minister Joyce said.

“Dairy Australia will use the grant to develop a food safety culture that will maintain our reputation as a reliable supplier of safe, quality produce.

“This is what makes our dairy products so internationally competitive.

“New exporters will get support to establish good processes and procedures and help them to become export ready.

“Developing the knowledge and capabilities of producers is vital to the future of our farmers, their communities as well as agricultural production and economic growth.

“This government is committed to maximising opportunities for producers to export their premium products to premium markets at premium prices.”

Minister Joyce said the funding was timely.

“This targeted support comes on the back of historic trade agreements the government has signed with China, Japan and Korea,” Minister Joyce said.

“Under the programme, a total of $5.3 million (GST inclusive) has been committed so far to small exporters of fish, meat, egg, dairy, grains and horticulture. This is in addition to the $1.3 million already provided in rebates to assist small exporters with export registration charges.”