Young farmers encouraged to apply for scholarship program

By Contributed

Jun 10, 2024

State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland is encouraging young farmers to apply for a recently opened scholarship program. Photo by Contributed

There are only a few areas that regional students have an advantage over their metro counterparts, and one of those is in farming.

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State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland is encouraging young farmers across the region to apply for a scholarship that will help support the next generation of farmers and farm workers.

Applications for the 2024 Young Farmers Upskill and Invest Scholarship are now open, and features offerings of up to $10,000 per scholarship, up to $5000 for study, as well as an additional $5000 available for professional development, business planning, or on-farm activities.

“I encourage all of our young local farmers to apply for this amazing opportunity,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This funding can make sure the next generation of farmers gain new skills, can suitably invest in their career, and contribute to the future of local agriculture in our growing region.

“Agriculture plays such a crucial role in supporting our local economy, and it is imperative that our younger farmers are provided with the resources to expand their expertise and practical experience.”

The scholarship is designed to be flexible and to accommodate the demands and ambitions of young farmers and farm workers.

Since it began in 2015, 117 young farmers have been awarded scholarships.

To be eligible, applicants must be:

Aged between 18 and 35 at the time of the application close date
Working in a food and fibre farm business in Victoria at least three days per week for the past three months
Have at least two years of on-farm experience
Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident currently residing in Victoria.

Applications will be considered for any form of study or training relevant to developing a career in agriculture, including professional short courses or workshops.

Eligible study or training must be a minimum of 16 contact hours and delivered by a registered training organisation, or another reputable organisation approved by the department.

Applications for the 2024 Young Farmers Scholarship Program will close at 5pm on Monday, June 17.

For more information and to apply, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/support-and-resources/networks/young-farmers/young-farmers-scholarships/