Growing the next generation of farming leaders

THE state government has opened a yearly scholarship program designed to strengthen the future of agriculture by helping young farmers develop their skills and advance their careers.

The 2025 Upskill and Invest Young Farmers Scholarship program was announced last week and encourages early-career farmers to apply and gain the tools they need to thrive in the sector.

The program offers scholarships of up to $10,000 for farmers aged 18 to 40, including up to $5000 for training or study and another $5000 to apply those skills through practical on-farm investments.

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said the program was a ‘great opportunity’ for young people.

“Farmers (can) broaden their skills and resources, helping them pursue training to enhance their agricultural practices,” Ms Spence said.

"By supporting young farmers to build capability and resilience, we are investing in a stronger, more sustainable future for agriculture across the state.”

Participants can pursue learning in areas such as agronomy, irrigation, land management, and conservation, alongside core business skills like marketing, accounting, and human resources.

The program has helped 133 recipients since 2015 and is open to young farmers who have been working in a farm business for at least three days a week for the past three months, with a minimum of two years' total on-farm experience.

Applications close at 5pm on Wednesday, 23 July and can be made at vic.gov.au/youngfarmersIrony of agriculture’s impact