Farmers across South Australia facing severe dry conditions now have access to crucial support through the State Government’s $5 million On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to primary producers who are working hard to manage and mitigate the ongoing impacts of drought. With drought conditions intensifying, this funding comes at a critical time, offering farmers the opportunity to invest in infrastructure that will improve their drought preparedness and resilience.
The rebate scheme provides a much-needed lifeline for agricultural businesses. Eligible primary producers can apply for rebates of up to 75% of the cost of on-farm infrastructure projects. The rebate can cover up to $5,000 (exclusive of GST), enabling farmers to make necessary upgrades that are critical for managing limited water resources, supporting livestock, and improving soil conditions. The scheme covers a wide range of eligible projects, including water infrastructure upgrades, stock containment areas, grain and fodder storage, as well as soil moisture monitors and weather stations.
As part of the wider $18 million drought assistance package, the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme is a direct response to the challenges faced by farming communities in South Australia. The package, informed by consultations with industry leaders and the South Australia Drought Advisory Group, is aimed at strengthening both the economic and environmental resilience of the state’s agricultural sector. In addition to the rebate scheme, the package includes the Connecting Communities Grants, designed to foster social connections and provide vital support to regional communities affected by the ongoing drought.
Clare Scriven, South Australia’s Minister for Agriculture, emphasised the importance of investing in on-farm infrastructure to build long-term resilience against drought. “Building our economic, environmental, and social resilience to droughts is crucial to maintaining our state’s robust primary industries and agribusinesses, which generate more than $18 billion in revenue and employ over 78,000 people,” she said. By supporting infrastructure projects that enable farmers to manage their operations more effectively, the government is working to ensure that South Australia’s agricultural sector remains strong and capable of weathering the challenges of prolonged dry conditions.
The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme provides a significant opportunity for farmers to invest in projects that improve their drought management capabilities. Water infrastructure upgrades are particularly crucial, as water scarcity continues to be one of the most pressing issues during extended dry spells. The scheme also supports improvements to stock containment areas, which are essential for maintaining livestock health during periods when pasture growth is limited. Furthermore, grain and fodder storage upgrades are included, ensuring that farmers can store essential feed for their animals, even during times of drought.
Soil moisture monitors and weather stations are another key aspect of the scheme, enabling farmers to monitor environmental conditions more accurately and plan their operations accordingly. These technologies can help farmers make more informed decisions, improving their overall drought preparedness and enabling them to adapt to changing conditions more effectively.
The rebate scheme is part of a broader effort to provide farmers with the tools and resources they need to manage drought conditions. South Australian farmers have long faced the challenges of an unpredictable climate, and the government is committed to providing the support needed to help them continue operating successfully. The drought assistance package reflects this commitment, addressing the immediate needs of farmers while also working to build long-term resilience.
In addition to direct infrastructure support, the Connecting Communities Grants aim to help regional communities stay connected and supported during these difficult times. Grants of up to $5,000 (exclusive of GST) are available to local governments, not-for-profits, community organisations, and industry groups to host events that promote social cohesion and offer support to farmers and regional towns. These events play a crucial role in maintaining morale and fostering a sense of community as farmers and rural communities grapple with the ongoing impacts of drought.
With these grants, the government recognises the importance of community engagement in overcoming the challenges of drought. By supporting initiatives that bring people together and provide emotional and practical support, the government aims to strengthen the social fabric of South Australia’s rural communities. Minister Scriven highlighted the importance of fostering community cohesion, stating, “Equipping communities to also continue fostering community cohesion is an important part of supporting our farmers and regional towns.”
The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme is expected to play a key role in helping farmers adapt to the challenges posed by ongoing dry conditions. By offering financial support for critical infrastructure projects, the scheme provides farmers with the tools they need to improve their water management, stock containment, and overall drought resilience. This will not only benefit individual farmers but also contribute to the broader stability of South Australia’s agricultural industry, which is a vital part of the state’s economy.
Farmers and primary producers are encouraged to apply for the rebate scheme, which aims to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by the agricultural sector. Applications for the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme are open now, and interested parties can visit the PIRSA website for more information and to submit their applications.
The government’s commitment to supporting farmers through this rebate scheme, along with the broader drought assistance package, is a testament to the importance of agriculture to South Australia’s economy and the wellbeing of its communities. With this initiative, farmers are being given the opportunity to invest in infrastructure that will help them manage the ongoing drought conditions and secure the future of their businesses. This support is a crucial step towards ensuring that South Australia’s agricultural sector remains resilient and capable of adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate.
As the state continues to face the impacts of drought, the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme stands as a beacon of hope for farmers looking to strengthen their operations and safeguard their livelihoods. With the support of the government, South Australia’s farmers will be better equipped to manage drought conditions and continue contributing to the state’s economy and agricultural success.
The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme is a vital part of South Australia’s broader strategy to build resilience against drought and strengthen the state’s agricultural sector. By providing financial support for infrastructure projects, the government is giving farmers the tools they need to thrive in the face of adversity. With the right resources and support, South Australia’s farming communities can continue to adapt, grow, and succeed, ensuring that the state’s agricultural industry remains a key driver of economic prosperity.
Farmers interested in applying for the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme or the Connecting Communities Grants can find more information and submit their applications via the PIRSA website.
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