A new initiative aims to strengthen support for vegetable growers in Western Australia from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds through targeted training, education, and extension programs.
Funded by Hort Innovation and delivered by VegetablesWA, the project will focus on helping growers improve business performance, profitability, and resilience. One of the main priorities will be supporting Vietnamese-speaking growers, who make up about one-third of Western Australia's vegetable industry.
© Hort Innovation
Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield said the project's purpose is to ensure equitable access to resources and information across the sector. "This project is about making sure every grower, no matter their background, can benefit from the latest research, support, and industry networks. By working with VegetablesWA, we're helping to build a more inclusive and resilient vegetable sector," he said.
The initiative will be led by Regional Development Officer Chi Nguyen, who is fluent in Vietnamese and has experience working with local growers. "Being able to communicate with growers in their preferred language and understand their unique needs is vital. This project will help ensure all growers have the opportunity to thrive," she said.
In addition to providing direct assistance, the program will support Regional Development Officers nationally to improve engagement with diverse communities. The goal is to ensure growers from different cultural backgrounds can participate in extension activities and access industry developments.
VegetablesWA CEO Peter Spackman said the partnership aims to help growers adopt best practices and improve business operations. "By providing tailored support and resources, we're helping our growers adopt best practices, improve productivity, and strengthen their businesses for the future," he said.
The project is funded through Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government.
© Hort InnovationFor more information:
Shannon O'Mara
Hort Innovation
Tel: +61 (0) 427 142 537
Email: [email protected]
www.horticulture.com.au
