The Government has called for applications for the 2008 Australian Agricultural Industries Young Innovators and Scientists Awards.

The awards are open to people aged 18 to 35 years who are working or studying in the agriculture, fisheries, forestry, food or natural resource industries.

Winners will receive up to $20,000 each to explore an emerging scientific issue or innovative activity over a 12 month period.

One winner will also receive an additional $30,000 to advance their research outcomes and career.

"The future of rural and regional Australia will be shaped by the next generation of talented and committed young people," Minister for Agriculture, Tony Burke, said.

"The Rudd government recognises the importance of fostering the talent of young Australians.

"These awards not only help kick-start careers but also deliver long-term benefits to our rural communities."

Funding in the 2008 Australian Agricultural Industries Young Innovators and Scientists Awards may be used for a range of activities including research projects, industry visits, further study into a specific area or attending conferences.

Sponsors include the Australian Animal Welfare Advisory Group, Australian Pork Limited, Dairy Australia, Forest and Wood Products, Horticulture Australia Limited, Land and Water Australia, and the Research and Development Corporations of fisheries, grains, grape and wine, and sugar.

The Bureau of Rural Sciences (BRS) coordinates the Awards on behalf of the sponsors and the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

* Applications can be downloaded from www.brs.gov.au/scienceawards. Applications close at 5.00pm AEST on Monday 30 June 2008.