DECEMBER 11, 2017: Farming, fishing and forestry groups planning to submit an application for a multi-year Smart Farming Partnership grant under the Australian Government’s $1 billion National Landcare Program, need to be quick, as applications close at 2pm AEDT on 21 December 2017.Smart Farming Partnership grants of between $250,000 and $4 million are available to help land management and farming groups take good ideas to the next level, by bringing them into reality.Our farmers care for 61 per cent of our landmass and have a long-held reputation for sustainable and innovative land management.These grants will enable farming organisations to forge strong partnerships with other groups to support large projects.Through the $1 billion National Landcare Program, the Coalition Government is backing farmers’ natural instincts to care for the land.The government is supporting innovation leading to improved soils, vegetation and biodiversity, and in turn, helping farmers in the region to be productive and profitable.Thursday 21 December is fast approaching, and I would encourage organisations with a vision for improving prosperity while protecting Australian land for future generations of Australians, to get their applications in as a matter of priority.For more information on the grant and how to apply: www.nrm.gov.auFast Facts:

• Our farmers care for 61 per cent of Australia’s land.

• Grants valued between $250,000 and $4 million are available to organisations to trail and implement next generation sustainable farming, forestry and fishing practices.

• Applications accepted until Thursday 21 December 2017 at 2pm AEDT.