PORTFOLIO NEWS

Farmers to start receiving support payments

Many of the nation's farmers will be among those who start receiving direct payments from 12 March 2009 under the Australian Government's Nation Building and Jobs Plan. The plan includes a one-off $950 Farmers' Hardship Payment for farmers receiving Exceptional Circumstances income support. Read the minister's media release online.

Government receives final drought review report

The Government has received the final Productivity Commission report into the economic impact of drought, as part of its national review of drought policy. It's the last of three reports to inform the review. The Government will now consider the recommendations from all three reports—from the Productivity Commission, the expert social panel and the Bureau of Meteorology / CSIRO—and extensive feedback from public consultation. Read the minister's media release online.

Young farmers urged to apply for Next Gen Farmers funding

Young people in primary industries are urged to apply for grants worth up to $50 000 for projects to boost their leadership skills under the Next Gen Farmers initiative. Applications close on 9 April 2009. More information available at www.daff.gov.au/nextgenfarmers or by calling 1800 638 746.

Rural women to take greater role in climate change challenge

Organisations that support rural women are reminded they have until 9 April 2009 to apply for grants worth up to $50 000 under the Recognising Women Farmers initiative. The grants will help to build the leadership of women in primary industries, to make rural and regional areas more resilient in a changing climate. Further information is available at www.daff.gov.au/womenleadingchange or by calling 1800 638 746.

PUBLICATIONS AND REPORTS

New title in Science for Decision Makers series

Science for Decision Makers is a series published by the Bureau of Rural Sciences. It describes the latest developments in scientific advice, assessments or tools relating to agricultural, fisheries and forestry industries, including their supporting communities. Read the latest title in the Science for Decision Makers series—Soil Carbon Management and Carbon Trading—online. For a full list of Science for Decision Makers titles go to www.brs.gov.au.

AQIS Bulletin February/March 2009 out now! 

The latest edition of AQIS Bulletin is out now. This edition includes how AQIS is bridging distances using remote diagnostics, how industry and AQIS acted quickly to identify and stop exotic wood borers, and why our TOP WATCH! calendars are worth their weight in midges. Read the latest AQIS Bulletin online.

Export earnings in the December quarter increases despite global financial crisis 

Australia’s export earnings from energy and mineral resources increased by 9 per cent to a record $47 billion in the December quarter 2008, according to ABARE’s December quarter 2008 Australian Mineral Statistics. The record earnings reflect high contract prices for bulk commodities, coupled with a depreciation of the Australian dollar. For a free download visit the ABARE website or phone 02 6272 2010.