Australian berry organisations will benefit from the $5 million Leadership in Agricultural Industries Fund.
There are 316 Australian berry growers, who produced $197 million worth of berries in 2015/16.
Raspberries and Blackberries Australia Inc, in partnership with Australian Blueberry Growers Association Inc, will receive $230,000 to collaborate and develop a new governance and leadership structure for the berry industry.
The funding will help Australian berry growers make the most of international market access and help to develop industry leaders who will advocate for berry growers.
Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Luke Hartsuyker, said the two organisations will use the funding to develop an effective governance and leadership structure for the berry industry, a berry industry strategic plan and train candidates identified for leadership roles in the new structure.
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“This funding will help set up the berry industry to be a major player in the horticulture industry and give them the strategic direction to make the most of new international market access,” he said.
“This is an important project that will have a lasting impact on the berry industry—supporting the current and next generation of leaders and giving them the advocacy skills and know-how to champion their industry's priorities.”