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Sheep Industry Fund contribution decreased

Tuesday 21 April 2009

Following a review of the state’s Sheep Industry Fund last year, the contribution rate payable by SA sheep producers will decrease by 5 cents to 35 cents per transaction from 1 May 2009.

The SA Sheep Advisory Group (SASAG) oversaw the review and sought input from key industry stakeholders and sheep producers.

In developing the recommendations, SASAG Chair, Ian Pfeiffer said the outcomes addressed what should be supported by the Fund and the appropriate contribution rate.

“The decrease will provide some relief to sheep producers while still allowing investment in industry development and keeping an adequate amount in reserve for unforseen contingencies including emergency disease preparedness and response,” said Mr Pfeiffer.

The Sheep Industry Fund was initiated in 1999, and provides funding for programs and projects of benefit to South Australia’s sheep industry. 

Mr Pfeiffer said the new contribution rate will provide ongoing funding for the current programs and be a source of funding for new projects.

“The Sheep Industry Fund currently contributes to endemic disease control, predator control and livestock traceability,” said Mr Pfeiffer.

“Beyond this, funding is now available for short-term and ongoing projects that address identified farm gate priority areas.”

The priority areas for 2009-10 are industry cohesiveness and communication, business competency, sustainable industry research and extension and education resources for value chain participants.

“SASAG has called for project applications and they are due by 22 May 2009.  We encourage industry groups to develop projects that address priority areas and provide outcomes that move the state’s industry forward,” he said.