Upper House MP Sam Farraway has announced $200,000 from Round Two of the NSW Government’s Regional Job Creation Fund for the purchase of a Honey Extracting Plant in Orange.
Mr Farraway said the co-funding with Australian Queen Bee Line Pty Ltd (AQBL) was part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to creating jobs for the regions by making investments in technology.
“The primary production industry been hit hard by COVID over the past few years with businesses still struggling to find and retain staff.
“This funding will support an initial 10 jobs in Orange, benefiting those locals interested in pursuing a career in the agricultural sector,” Mr Farraway said.
“Furthermore, as one of five Australian Certified Organic Honey Producers in NSW, AQBL will now be poised to meet the growing demands of honey production for both their domestic and international markets.
“With Varroa Mite affecting the industry, this investment secures our local production lines, protects our ‘food-bowl’ and ensures the longevity of the industry.
“The Nationals are delivering a brighter future for locals by securing the safety and stability of our Regions by safeguarding our homegrown produce.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the NSW Government’s $140 million Regional Job Creation Fund is on track to create over 6,500 new direct jobs in regional NSW by helping businesses expand production and provide incentives to move operations to the bush.
“The Regional Job Creation Fund continues to attract new investment from businesses and enable economic recovery across agriculture, manufacturing and tourism industries and ensure they continue to thrive now and into the future,” Mr Toole said.
“This fund allows businesses to fast-track their growth plans, expand their operations and creates a solid base for job creation in regional NSW.
“This funding exemplifies the NSW Government’s commitment to build robust regional economies, which is giving businesses, employees and their families confidence in the growth and prosperity of regional NSW.”
Under the Regional Job Creation Fund, eligible businesses could apply for grants to support the purchase of new equipment, expand facilities, create new iconic tourist experiences and visitor attractions or relocate businesses from out of state to regional NSW, which will lead to the creation of new jobs.
An additional $100 million for the Regional Job Creation Fund was included in the 2022/23 Budget. Further details will be available later in 2022.
For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/RJCF.