Grants expand access to crop protection tools for growers

Australia’s horticulture sector is set to gain improved access to crop protection tools, following new funding under the Australian Government’s AgVet Access Grants program.

Hort Innovation has been approved to receive eight grants totalling 1.2 million dollars to support regulatory work and trials needed to expand chemical use options for growers.

The program is aimed at addressing emerging pest, disease and weed pressures across multiple industries.

Efficacy and residue trials are required for minor use permits and label extensions, allowing growers to access new or expanded chemical uses where needed.

Industry groups say growers are already seeing benefits in managing key challenges, including fungal disease in cherries and invasive weeds affecting pineapple production.

Hort Innovation says the investment will strengthen long-term productivity and resilience across Australia’s horticulture industries.