Albanese Budget delivers $6m for Beef 2024

Central Queensland will benefit from $6 million in funding for Beef 2024, delivered in the Albanese Government’s first Federal Budget, handed down last week.

The Federal support will expand the event, creating more commercial opportunities for exhibitors and allowing more visitors the chance to attend.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said he was pleased the Government was delivering on a key local election promise in its very first budget.

“I was lucky enough to join the Prime Minister when he made this commitment at the Gracemere Saleyards during the election campaign, so it’s extra special to come back and fulfil that commitment now,” Minister Watt said.

“This is a huge event for Central Queensland, and for the cattle industry across the country, which showcases the best of the best. 

“I’ve been to the last two Beef events and I know how important it is for the Australian cattle industry and the CQ economy.

“Held every three years, Beef Week brings together producers, scientists, chefs, students, supply chain exhibitors, and everyone in between.

“By supporting events like this, we can ensure our cattle industry, in all its parts, is given a platform to grow and share knowledge.

“Events like Beef drive industry growth, and help the agriculture industry to reach its goal of being a $100 billion sector by 2030.

“The event also has a massive impact on the local economy, with $94 million pumped into the region during Beef 2021.

Beef Australia CEO Simon Irwin said this investment will do great things for the 2024 event.

“The Government have been long standing supporters of Beef Australia, but this announcement has seen the greatest financial commitment to date”, Mr Irwin said.

“Both Beef Australia and the Government acknowledge the importance that Beef Australia events bring to the economy, seeing 115,000 delegates through the gates and delivering in excess of $94 million locally in 2021 alone.

“2024 will see the return of international visitors since 2018.

“Like the Government, we are committed to working with key international stakeholders to enhance international trade outcomes, build international consumer trust in beef as a product and the importance of the industry to the Australian economy.

“This increased injection of funding on the 2021 event will certainly go a long way in allowing us to foster future event and industry growth on domestic and international level”.