Responding to growth in Australian-Chinese Agriculture sector relations, The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, as headed by Minister Barnaby Joyce, have announced a program of $384,000 available under Australia-China Agriculture Cooperation Agreement (ACACA) over the next two years.
About the Program:
- The program is divided into two streams: Projects and Trade Missions.
- Funding and application selection is also divided by these two streams.
- Program priorities include science and technology cooperation, sustainable agricultural technology, food safety, and the exploration of niche markets.
Eligibility Requirements:
- All interested Australian businesses and individuals are eligible to apply
- Applicants require an Australian Business Number (ABN) and the ability to enter a legally binding agreement
Key Dates and Deadlines:
- Application submission closes on the 11th of March, 2016
- Assessment, consultation and Chinese endorsement occurs through March / April / May
- Successful Applicants will enter agreements and commence June 2016
Overall Program Funding Breakdown:
- The two year program will provide A$384,000 biannually
- Calls for applications will occur annually, in March 2016 and December 2016
- Funding priority reassessment will occur annually as set by the Australian and Chinese government departments.
- Stream 1 Program projects can be allocated up to A$44,000 (GST inclusive), with a total of A$88,000 each year.
- Stream 2 Trade Mission projects can be allocated up to A$16,500 (GST inclusive), with a total of A$49,500 each year,
Applications must complement the Department’s overarching program objectives of enhancing cooperation across agricultural industries, develop the trading relationship, and providing a forum for the exchange of scientific information.
More information at: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/market-access-trade/acaca