Farmers across Australia will benefit from an extra $50 million allocated to the On-Farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
The announcement today from Ministers Pitt and Littleproud commits an additional $50 million of federal funding to the scheme, bringing the total to $100 million.
“News that the program will be continued is certainly welcomed,” NFF CEO Tony Mahar said.
“The availability of water is make or break for all farmers. This scheme has allowed thousands of farmers to build dams, water storage and pipelines which improved their water efficiency and the drought-resilience of their farm businesses.”
The program provides a 25% rebate, up to a value of $25,000, for the purchase and installation of on-farm water infrastructure projects. The initial three-year $50 million rebate scheme was exhausted within its first year.
“The first tranche of the Emergency Water Infrastructure Scheme was an absolute success with feedback from farmers only positive. This second round of funding will benefit those farmers who missed out the first time.”
“It’s clear that Ministers Pitt and Littleproud on behalf of the Federal Government have listened to farmers and value the future of our industry.”
“Importantly, this program depends on co-funding from state and territory governments.
“We are calling on state and territory governments to show the same commitment to Australia’s farmers as the Federal Government and allocate the necessary funds,” Mr Mahar said.
Media Contact
Laureta Wallace
GM, Media & Communications
0408 448 250
lwallace@nff.org.au
Stacey Davidson
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