Issued by Senator the Hon Murray Watt - former Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Where is my beef from? New federal grant to support beef industry
If you’ve ever wondered where your delicious rib fillet steak, beef cheek massaman curry or beef mince bolognese originated from, it will now be easier to find out thanks to a new grant from the federal government.
Tracking produce from paddock to plate, the Albanese Government has made $4 million in grant funding available to assist businesses in the animal sectors improve and expand their traceability systems.
The new Livestock, Animal Traceability Development, Implementation, and Improvement Grant Round aims to support industry by helping businesses integrate new and improved traceability systems.
Successful applicants from the livestock, animals, and animal products sector will be eligible to receive grants between $50,000 to $500,000.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said it is crucial to identify and track where animals and animal-related produce were sourced.
“Australian and international consumers want to know where their food is being sourced from and that they’re purchasing quality Australian products and this cannot be done without traceability,” Minister Watt said.
“The Albanese Government is investing in innovation to find practical solutions to help the industry cut some of the hassles associated with traceability, increase efficiencies in the sector and reduce costs.
“Improved traceability helps maintain a competitive edge in the international marketplace.
“We continue to partner with industry, farmers, and researchers to help them take advantage of traceability opportunities and provide them with a key ingredient for success.”
The Australian Government has invested nearly $120 million for traceability efforts in the agricultural sector since 2021.
These latest grants was today announced at Beef Week 2024, with applications opening next week for projects running between 2024 and 2026.
Applications open on 15 May and close on 1 July 2024.
For more information visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.