THE SA livestock industry will receive a boost with the state government and Meat & Livestock Australia agreeing to a $1-million partnership to help grow the sector.
The $1.125m agreement will leverage the state government's $7.5m Red Meat and Wool Growth Program and allow more producers and service providers to be involved.
Primary Industries Minister David Basham said the three-year partnership with the MLA was an important step in rebuilding herd and flock numbers.
"This MLA partnership on the Red Meat and Wool Growth Program is important in helping to further upskill our livestock sector and encourage innovation," he said.
"The state government has a long-term vision for our livestock industry that would see an increased flock and larger herd numbers. While the drought and bushfires have had a significant impact on the number of livestock in SA, it is important the government puts initiatives in place to give our farmers every opportunity to rebuild.
"SA's red meat and wool sector generates $2.65 billion each year in production and processing revenue and $1.1b in exports, as well as supporting 30,000 jobs.
"The Red Meat and Wool Growth Program provides a strong pathway for the industry to become more resilient and innovative with the focus on technology adoption, strategic skill development, and enhancing biosecurity."
MLA Research, Development and Adoption general manager Michael Crowley said being part of the Red Meat and Wool Growth Program was a natural fit for the organisation.
"There is a synergy between the Red Meat and Wool Growth Program and our Strategic Plan 2020-25, Adoption Strategy and Red Meat 2030," he said.
"It is a win-win scenario for the red meat, livestock and wool sector."
Mr Basham said one of the initiatives under the Red Meat and Wool Program - the Producer Technology Groups - has gained momentum with 235 farmers expressing interest through the EOI process and 10 groups already formed across the state with another six to be established during the 2020-21 financial year.
"The Producer Technology Groups will provide producers with the opportunity to support each other in the exploration, implementation and practical application of technology, biosecurity and business planning," he said.
"They will be given the tools to improve the productivity, efficiency and profitability of their farm businesses."
To further support the industry, an online series of tech talks and videos has just been launched.
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