Victorian Minister for Agriculture, Ros Spence, has announced the opening of the 2025 Upskill and Invest Young Farmers Scholarship Program, encouraging early-career farmers to apply and gain the tools they need to thrive in Victoria’s agriculture sector.
The program offers scholarships of up to $10,000 for farmers aged 18 to 40 including up to $5,000 for training or study, and another $5,000 to apply those skills on-farm through practical investments.
Participants can pursue learning in areas such as agronomy, irrigation, land management and conservation, alongside core business skills like marketing, accounting, and HR.
“The 2025 Upskill and Invest Young Farmers Scholarship Program is a great opportunity for farmers looking to broaden their skills and resources, helping them pursue training to enhance their agricultural practices,” said Minister Spence.
“By supporting young farmers to build capability and resilience, we are investing in a stronger, more sustainable future for agriculture across the state.”
After completing their training, recipients can use the second half of their scholarship to invest in farm planning, new technologies, professional development, or equipment that supports innovation and growth.
Since 2015, the program has empowered 133 young farmers from across the state.
Melissa Willard, who is a small-scale farmer in the Central Highlands, used her scholarship to complete training in holistic management and biointensive growing, with the investment helping her purchase a polytunnel for her market garden business.
“I encourage Victoria’s young farmers to apply for the 2025 Upskill and Invest Young Farmers Scholarship Program,” said Chair of the Young Farmers Advisory Council, Clay Gowers.
“It’s a great opportunity to boost the productivity of your farm business, enhance sustainability on farm and improve your own skills.”
Applications are now 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.
To apply, visit vic.gov.au/youngfarmers. Applications close 5pm, 23 July.
