The Liberal and Nationals Government is helping to ensure field days in Mallee can see off COVID-19 and continue contributing to local communities in the post pandemic era.

Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said another $25 million is being provided under the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days and Supporting Showmen and Women programs.

“COVID-19 has forced the cancellation of more than 700 show and field day events since early 2020,” Minister Littleproud said.

“They have incurred significant financial losses for two consecutive years.

“Those hit hardest are the local showmen and women – often small, independent, sole-traders or family-based operations that cannot absorb the costs

“The flow-on effects to local communities like those in Mallee will be felt for years.”

Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster said the Government provided $34.5 million under Round 1 of the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program to 378 show societies and field day organisers who cancelled in 2020.

“We are continuing to back these iconic events with another $25 million to help ease cash flow pressures for event organisers and those vital showmen and women,” Dr Webster said.

“Industry needs confidence and certainty to push through these times and be ready on the other side to contribute to the agriculture’s $100 billion by 2030 target.

“Agricultural shows and field days are supported by more than 50,000 volunteers and about 4,000 showmen and women.

“They make a significant social and economic contribution to my electorate and hundreds of Australian communities.

“They support farm innovation, and the productivity and profitability of our agricultural industries.”

Fast Facts:

• Round 2 of the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days Program (to 30 June 2022) will provide $21 million for the operational costs of shows cancelled in 2021 due to COVID-19.
• The Supporting Showmen and Women program (to 30 June 2022) has been extended to provide an additional $4 million towards reimbursing showground rent of showmen and women.
• More information is to come shortly on how and when organisations can apply for funding.