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Drought support package

Drought Support News
Drought Support News

Stay up to date and have drought support information emailed to you.

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The State Government is investing $73 million to support farmers affected by drought in SA –

The package has been designed in direct consultation with primary producers, including roundtables with farmers and key industry bodies.

For more information about the drought support package, see the media release or download the Drought support brochure – print-ready file (PDF 4.3 MB).

You can also subscribe to Drought Support News to be emailed the latest information.

Drought statement from the Minister

You can include this drought statement from the Minister (PDF 60.4 KB) to support any applications regarding financial hardship due to drought.

Drought support programs

For information on support programs available from the Australian Government, see Drought, disaster and rural support.

Support programs available from the Government of South Australia are listed below – the tile will direct you to the relevant agency's webpage.

[APPLICATIONS CLOSED] Sporting clubs in regional areas affected by drought can apply for up to $5,000 for their communities to stay active. Go to the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing website.

Primary producers can collect water for stock from Bundaleer Reservoir.

Financial relief for commercial vehicle registration is being developed by the Department of Infrastructure and Transport – information available soon.

Funding for gatherings that encourage communities to come together, share experiences, and reinforce the unity and strength of rural areas.

A scheme contributing to the freight cost of charitable organisations that are delivering fodder to primary producers.

This program delivered by SA Health will focus on supporting individuals and strengthening families and communities, reinforcing the community connections that are vital to positive mental health and wellbeing and resilience.

A further $4.5 million has been allocated to support producers with the implementation of eID tags.

$1.1 million has been allocated to provide temporary bulk water collection points for critical water needs in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu. Go to the Department for Environment and Water website.

Primary producers receiving the Commonwealth Farm Household Allowance (FHA) can apply for the 2025–26 Emergency Services Levy Rebate. Go to RevenueSA website.

PIRSA's FaB Mentors are available to help primary producers navigate challenging times. This is a free service in South Australia, identifying assistance specific to your situation.

A program to eliminate the impacts feral deer have on primary industries, the environment and public safety.

Program to reduce wild rabbit populations that graze on vegetation, crops, and pastures.

Funding to support country students at public schools financially impacted by drought to participate in camps and excursions. Go to the Department for Education website.

Additional funding has been allocated to Future Drought Fund preparedness and resilience programs.

Drought-impacted South Australian farmers will not have to pay the $167 hourly fee usually required for inspections of incoming fodder.

Funding for primary producers to implement infrastructure projects that assist with managing current drought conditions and strengthen preparedness for future droughts.

Funding for councils to support the upgrade of publicly accessible standpipes in regional areas.

A program to reduce the currently high kangaroo numbers which can severely impact crops, pastures, and native vegetation.

Encouraging new events and supporting the growth of existing events to provide economic stimulus to drought-affected regional communities. Go to the South Australian Tourism Commission website.

Additional funding has been allocated to the Rural Financial Counselling Service to support drought-affected primary producers. Go to the Rural Business Support website.

Grants providing up to $1,500 in financial assistance to eligible SA primary producers and rural small business owners experiencing significant financial hardship. Go to the Rural Business Support website.

The Department of State Development is finalising initiatives including financial counselling support and small business fundamentals programs – information available soon.

Contact us

For assistance with funding applications, discussing your situation, and finding the support you need. The hotline is staffed Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.

Recovery hotline 1800 931 314 Email: pirsa.recovery@sa.gov.au