New grants for Queensland exporters hit by coronavirus

The Queensland Government has opened applications for a $500,000 industry grants package to support Queensland agribusiness exporters directly affected by coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said the new Market Diversification and Resilience Grants Program is part of the Queensland Government’s $27.25 million coronavirus industry recovery package.

“Queensland’s agribusiness exporters support thousands of jobs and we are doing everything we can to help them through this difficult time,” Mr Furner said.

“Priority will be given to those businesses directly impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.

“Grants will be available to support agriculture, food and fishing exporters, their critical supply chain partners and industry organisations to build resilience by diversifying into new markets.

“They can be used to assist with purchasing new equipment including refrigerators, freezers or filleting machines and for larger projects such as market evaluation studies, market visits and staff training.

“These grants will help exporters in the live coral trout and tropical rock lobster industries who have lost their traditional markets in China and Hong Kong, to readjust and find alternative markets in Australia and overseas.”

Mr Furner said the grants were in addition to support and assistance already put in place to support directly-impacted fisheries businesses, especially the live coral trout and tropical rock lobster fisheries.

The first round funding for the new Market Diversification and Resilience Grants Program opened today (Thursday March 12) and applications close on Monday April 20.

Mr Furner said applicants seeking funding for new equipment up to the value of $10,000 will have their applications assessed as soon as they apply. Applicants businesses must contribute 25 per cent of total equipment costs.

“Applicants will be notified within days as to whether they have been successful,” he said.

“The project-based grants will provide funding of up to $50,000. Applicants must co-invest at least 50 per cent of total project funds and successful applicants will be notified by 1 May 2020.”

Exporters who would like to know more can contact the grants team at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23, email MDRG@daf.qld.gov.au or visit www.daf.qld.gov.au

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ENDS

Media contact:           Ron Goodman            0427 781 920