Media Release 8 May 2020
- $20 million in grants for 122 regional agricultural show societies
- Funds will be used to upgrade or build new infrastructure on show grounds
- Grants will also help sustain show societies forced to cancel events
Regional agricultural show societies across Australia will share in $20 million worth of grants to renew and reinvigorate ageing show grounds through the Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program.
Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud, said the grants would also serve as a much needed cash injection in the wake of recent bushfires and the COVID-19 outbreak.
“Agricultural shows are a major drawcard for our regional towns, many of which have had to cancel events this year due to COVID-19,” Minister Littleproud said.
“These grants will help show societies refurbish their show grounds and facilities, so that when their next event rolls around it will be even more attractive to show goers.
“Ag shows are the heart and soul of our regional communities. They bring and keep communities together, link the country to the city and provide a key boost to these local economies.
“These events showcase the hard work and innovation that goes into producing Australia’s food and fibre.
“Upgrading show facilities means more visitors to these regional events, more local employment, and more tills ringing in local businesses.
“The grants will be used by the successful show societies for a range of infrastructure works, from small-scale upgrades to major overhauls and new builds that will benefit not only the show, but the community throughout the year and in emergency situations as was the case in the recent bushfires.
“The Australian Government wants to see our agricultural shows continue to thrive and be enjoyed for generations to come.”
For successful applicants visit: www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/infrastructure/ag-shows
Fast Facts:
- There are around 580 agricultural shows across Australia.
- Agricultural shows contribute around $965 million to the economy each year.
- Nearly 6 million Australians visit an agricultural show each year.
