The Horticulture Netting Program: Supporting Australian Farmers

The Horticulture Netting Program is a vital initiative aimed at strengthening the resilience and productivity of Australian farms. Funded by the Australian Government, this program provides grants to help farmers install protective netting over their crops. By reducing the risks posed by extreme weather, pests and other environmental challenges, the program ensures that Australian horticulture remains competitive and sustainable.

What is the Purpose of the Horticulture Netting Program?

The program’s primary goal is to support horticulture growers in improving crop quality and yields by installing protective netting. Extreme weather events, such as hailstorms, frost and excessive heat, have increasingly affected Australian farms, leading to significant losses. Additionally, pests and birds often damage crops, further impacting productivity.

Protective netting offers a practical solution to these challenges. It shields crops from physical damage, creates a more stable microclimate, and even reduces water consumption by up to 30%. By subsidising the cost of netting, the program makes this essential technology accessible to more growers, supporting innovation and sustainability across the industry.

How Does the Horticulture Netting Program Work?

Under the program, eligible growers can apply for grants to cover up to 50% of the cost of purchasing and installing netting. The grants are capped at $100,000 per farm business, ensuring equitable access to funding. The netting can be used for a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts, allowing growers to tailor its application to their specific needs.

The program is implemented at the state level, with funding distributed through regional agricultural departments. Farmers can submit applications detailing their proposed projects, and successful applicants receive financial assistance to offset the upfront costs of netting installation.

Why the Program Exists and Why It’s Important

Australia’s horticulture sector faces mounting challenges from climate change, unpredictable weather, and rising input costs. These factors threaten the profitability and sustainability of farms. The Horticulture Netting Program addresses these issues by:

• Reducing Risk: Protecting crops from extreme weather and pests minimises losses and ensures a more consistent yield.
• Enhancing Sustainability: Netting reduces water use, helping farms conserve this precious resource.
• Boosting Productivity: By creating optimal growing conditions, netting enhances crop quality and increases output, supporting farm profitability.

Recent Achievements

The program has already delivered significant benefits to Australian farms:

• Improved Crop Resilience: Many farmers have reported fewer losses during extreme weather events after installing netting.
• Increased Quality: Netting has led to “better looking”, higher-grade produce, commanding premium prices in the market.
• Wider Adoption: With government support, netting has become more accessible, leading to greater adoption across the horticulture sector.

All Seasons Workforce Australia’s Role

At All Seasons Workforce Australia, we are proud to contribute to the horticulture industry. As a leading provider of labour solutions, we support horticulture growers by assembling skilled teams for planting, maintenance and harvesting. With our adaptable workforce, farms can maximise the benefits of netting technology, ensuring that growing and production is managed efficiently.

We understand the importance of collaboration in agriculture and are committed to helping farmers achieve their goals. By working alongside growers who utilise the Horticulture Netting Program, we help create a sustainable and productive future for Australian horticulture.

The Horticulture Netting Program is a shining example of how targeted government support can drive innovation and resilience in the industry. At All Seasons Workforce Australia, we are honored to play a part in this journey, empowering growers and strengthening Australia’s horticultural legacy. Together, we are building a future where farms thrive and communities prosper.