AUSVEG has welcomed the $1.5 million commitment made by the federal government to support the “largest” horticulture conference and trade show in the southern hemisphere, Hort Connections.

According to AUSVEG, the Albanese government’s commitment, through the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), to provide $1.5 million over three years in support of Hort Connections ensures the vegetable industry will continue to have access to the latest and best information and technology to ensure it continues to provide Australian families with the freshest, and safest fresh produce.

Hort Connections is delivered by AUSVEG and the International Fresh Produce Association of Australia-New Zealand and provides a platform to bring the whole Australian horticulture industry together on an annual basis.

This year’s conference is underway in Brisbane this week and over the next three days will be attended by more than 4000 industry stakeholders including 1000 growers, 250 exhibiting companies and over 80 presenters.

“The funding means Hort Connections can continue to promote and showcase Australian horticulture, including the broader horticulture ecosystem, and ensure that Australian growers are at the cutting edge of innovation and technology,” says AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote.

“The funding provided by DAFF will be used to increase networking and information sharing for horticulture growers and stakeholders during the event and allow us to ensure we can support more growers attending and participating in Hort Connections. The federal government’s support of Hort Connections is recognition of the vital role the conference and trade show plays in the horticultural sector across Australia.

“Right now, vegetable growers are worried about their future, with over one third telling AUSVEG they are seriously considering leaving the sector. If that happens, it’s not only an economic problem, it’s [also] a food security issue.”