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The Nationals commit to Farmers’ Markets Support ProgramFarmers’ Markets Support Program Victoria’s farmers’ market to get $2 million fund if The Nationals get elected. By Portal Admin - 26th August 2018 - Back to News The Nationals commit to Farmers’ Markets Support Program Victoria’s farmers’ markets and small food producers will get the $2 million Farmers’ Market Support Program back again if The Nationals are elected to government in November.
The Nationals candidate for Morwell Sheridan Bond said The Nationals strongly support our small food producers and farmers’ markets, which give our producers the opportunity to sell direct to their customers.
"The Nationals are committed to restoring the successful grants program for Farmers Markets after it was quietly axed by the Andrews Labor Government," Ms Bond said.
"We recognise the role they play in both regional and urban communities such as Latrobe Valley.
"Our local farmers’ markets are incredibly popular and provide our local producers with the opportunity to sell direct to their customers. Importantly they encourage people to buy locally grown and produced food which in turn supports local jobs and businesses.
"For many communities, the local farmers’ markets also play a role in supporting local tourism.
They are a great way for people to taste the region and sample what’s on offer. Fruit and veges, wines, cheeses, eggs and meat, you name it, there are always hidden treasures to be discovered at our local farmers markets."
The Nationals are committed to working with small food producers to cut red tape that is currently a barrier to productivity and growth for small food producers.
"Our small producers have a reputation for providing high quality, delicious, locally made goods but red tape is making it harder for them to do business," Ms Bond said.
"Labor seems intent on wrapping our small producers up in kilometres of red tape. The Nationals will take a common sense approach and work with our small food producers to ensure there are sensible regulations so they can get on with business."
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: support@gippsland.com

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