FARMERS struggling to keep on top of pests and weeds will have access to a wider range of chemicals following a $1.78 million federal government investment.
The third round of the Agvet Chemicals Grants Program will deliver 26 grants to address a range of priority uses.
These include Amistar to manage leaf blight in sweet corn, Targo to manage mites in cocoa crops, Sero-X to manage mirids in lucerne crops, and Vivado to manage cobwebs in mushrooms.
Agriculture minister David Littleproud said farmers needed the tools to stay ahead of the game.
“It is important that we continue to provide our farmers with access to the safe and reliable chemicals they need to feed and clothe Australia,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Sometimes the cost involved in bringing an agvet chemical to market is uncommercial. This can mean Australian farmers may not get access to all the chemicals farmers have overseas.
“That’s where these merit-based grants come in.
The previous two rounds of the program awarded 100 grants to RDC applicants totalling $4.11m.
“This includes an effective treatment of annual rye grass in chickpeas, lupins and peas, a fungicide to prevent root rot in tomatoes and a growth regulator for use in our mango industry,” Mr Littleproud said.
Hort Innovation chief executive, John Lloyd, said the organisation submitted 27 grant applications in November, 16 of which were successful – signifying a great benefit for industry.
“The allocation of a large number of grants to the horticulture industry presents strong support for a $10 billion resources sector that is growing at a rapid rate,” Mr Lloyd said.
“The gross value of Australian horticultural production is projected to increase to $13.6 billion in 2022–23, with increased fruit and nut production being key drivers.
“This Agvet grant funding will open up more opportunities for growers to better manage pests, weeds and disease, ensuring the sustainability and profitability of the industry, and quality products for consumers.”