Primary producers across South Australia will be able to access funding to install on farm water infrastructure with the opening of a new round of the on-farm emergency water infrastructure rebate scheme.
A further $8 million, co-funded by the Australian and South Australian Governments, is available through the scheme, with eligible primary producers able to claim up to 25 per cent of the cost of approved critical infrastructure, capped at $25,000.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, the Honourable Tanya Plibersek MP said Australians know all too well that extreme weather events devastate communities and take years to recover from.
“That’s why these rebates are an important tool for many farmers, because they help with recovery while also putting farmers in a better position to look after livestock and crops the next time they’re confronted with drought, frost, or fires,” Minister Plibersek said.
“I thank South Australia for co-funding this program so that we can help more farmers prepare for a future with a more variable climate.
Initially launched in 2018 to support drought-affected primary producers, the scheme has been expanded to all council areas across the state and includes those impacted by natural disasters which have occurred after January 1, 2022.
In particular, the scheme will now be available to primary producers affected by the River Murray floods.
Up until this round, this fund had only been available to drought affected council areas.
South Australian Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven said South Australian primary producers have already seen the benefits of this scheme and it’s great to see the support now available for primary producers affected by natural disasters.
“This round of the scheme will be of particular assistance to livestock and horticulture producers impacted by the River Murray floods,” Minister Scriven said.
“Expansion of the scheme provides support to livestock and horticulture producers in repairing and replacing infrastructure damaged by natural disaster and continues support to build resilience of primary producers to drought.
Applications close on April 30, 2024, or when all funds are allocated.
For further information visit: pir.sa.gov.au/onfarm-water-rebate
