A leading farming body has welcomed the Victorian Government's $50m dollar investment into improving facilities, teaching and access to courses, claiming the move will help attract the next generation to careers in agriculture.
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Victorian Farmers Federation president David Jochinke said the future of Victorian agriculture was bright and further investment into the sector crucial to help attract the next generation of farmers.
He said the funding would also help position regional Victoria for growth.
"Agriculture is the lifeblood of regional Victoria with ample career opportunities for young Victorians," he said.
"We need to ensure there are avenues for those interested to learn about agriculture and not have to move out of the country to the city to do so.
"If we enable more agriculture students to live and study in the country, more than likely they stay to work in the regions. It's a win-win for regional Victoria."
Mr Jochinke said there was also the added ability for rural areas to host events and conferences, which could only be seen as a positive step forward.
He said the VFF had been calling for investment to meet the growing needs of skilled workers in Victorian agriculture.
"The VFF requested the Victorian Government invest in Certificate level Agriculture and Horticulture courses in the budget this year and we are pleased to receive news of this significant commitment," he said.
"Agriculture is undoubtedly a growth industry and jobs are in huge demand.
"This investment is another measure to encourage prospective students into careers in agriculture and the regions to meet this ongoing demand."
Mr Jochinke said the VFF was looking forward to further investment into regional Victoria as part of next week's Victorian State Budget.
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