Opportunities for innovators
Investing in a future-ready agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector is the goal of a 2022 science and innovation awards grant program, with applications now open.
Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud is inviting young researchers, scientists and innovators in agriculture, fisheries and forestry to submit a project application that addresses industry challenges.
“Australia has a proud tradition of innovation and we’re looking to build on that legacy with the next generation of Aussie smarts,” he said.
“We’re looking for projects that tackle issues in innovative ways and contribute to the ongoing success and sustainability of Australia’s agricultural, fisheries and forestry industries.
“It’s about supporting young people who are passionate about agriculture and helping them make a difference.
“Our young people are at the forefront of transforming agriculture as it grows to a $100-billion industry.
“Their innovations and new ideas will help individual farmers as well as whole industries and communities.
“They will drive change as ideas and prototypes become reality.”
Fraser Border from the University of Southern Queensland was last year’s Ministerial Award winner.
“His project used augmented reality to help meat-process workers improve accuracy and efficiency, reduce waste and increase returns for processors,” Mr Littleproud said.
People can find out more and apply online at www.agriculture.gov.au/abares/ conferences-events/scienceawards. Applications close at 5pm on October 1.
The 2022 round features 12 industry award categories, with each winner receiving a grant of up to $22,000.
Award categories are: Established, new and emerging rural industries; Eggs and poultry; Red-meat process; Pork; Wool; Cotton; Biosecurity and digital innovation; Fisheries and aquaculture; Forest and wood products; Grains; Horticulture; and Viticulture and oenology.
The Science and Innovation Awards for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is an open competitive annual grant program supporting young people aged between 18 and 35 who are working, employed or studying in an agriculture, fisheries or forestry-related industry – including food and sustainable natural-resource management.