The next wave of irrigation projects has received $70 million over four years in the state budget.
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But funding for the third stage of the irrigation scheme won’t flow until 2019-20 and the federal government, which funded 50 per cent of the first two stages, hasn’t confirmed its contribution.
The irrigation initiative aims to double the amount of water available through Tasmanian Irrigation Schemes by 2025.
Irrigation is a key component of the government’s plan to double the value of the agricultural sector to $10 billion.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Sarah Courtney said the government’s “comprehensive Agri-Food Growth Plan for 2018-2023 recognises the importance of agriculture to the state’s continued growth”.
“We know that a strong agricultural sector delivers jobs and opportunities across every region and this budget delivers across the board in supporting our farmers from our major dairy, beef, fruit and vegetable producing sectors to our wine makers, organic industries, beekeepers and wool growers,” she said.
Agricultural initiatives funded in the budget included $4.18 million to improve productivity and profitability across the red meat, dairy, wine, fruit and vegetables, honey, hemp and organics sector.
There’s also $7 million to modernise agricultural research farms and $860,000 over four years to add two Agri-Growth Liaison Offices in the North and a new primary producers hotline.
A $5 million centre for agricultural excellence in Burnie has also been funded but not until the 2019/20 financial year.
The budget was welcomed by Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association chief executive Peter Skillern.
“The raft of initiatives announced today will not only support agriculture but ensure its sustainability and assist the growth of regional communities,” he said.
“It is particularly pleasing to see additional funding for Rural Business Tasmania (RBT) to support them in their vital counselling services.”