A new partnership between the Victorian Government and the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations has been launched to assist Aboriginal Victorian-owned native food businesses.
The Djakitjuk Djanga program, which translates to “Country’s Food” in Dja Dja Wurrung language, provides $2 million in grants to support 13 Aboriginal native plant businesses to blossom.
The grants will be used to help Aboriginal Victorian-owned businesses expand operations and trial commercial production of native plants for food and botanicals.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes said: “The Djakitjuk Djanga grants program contributes to the development of an authentic Victorian native foods and botanicals industry and celebrates the rich variety of native plants that add a unique Australian touch to products.
We’re so proud to partner with the Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations to deliver the program and support the growth of this industry.”
The grants are set to generate job creation within communities, with numerous recipients employing staff as part of their projects.
Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations CEO Paul Paton said: “Traditional Owners are proud to share the benefits of our ancient knowledge and practices with the world, so whether through food, medicines, supplements, cosmetics or other products, this program will help us grow a culturally authentic industry, boosting our local businesses and economies.”
Symes visited Nalderun Indigenous Group in Harcourt to announce the recipients.
As one of the grant recipients, Nalderun is establishing a commercial native food garden, and plan to use their grant to employ a part-time gardener, set up an irrigation system and purchase equipment to support sales. Nalderun is also utilising the grant to support an educational component to promote native foods locally.
Popular native ingredients being produced include ground wattle seed, saltbush and lemon myrtle, which are sought after in Australian cooking and personal care products.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams said: “Recognising and celebrating First People’s agriculture, their ancient traditions and unique Australian flavours, products and businesses is so important and we’re proud to champion them.”
For more information about the grants and the recipients visit the website.
