Applications now open for second round of drought infrastructure grants

The second round of the scheme has been made possible through the Malinauskas State Government allocating a further $13 million to the scheme as part of the new $55 million Drought Support Package.

The scheme now offers 2 tiers of rebates to assist primary producers in implementing infrastructure projects. These will help with managing current drought conditions and strengthen preparedness for future droughts:

• Tier 1 – 75% rebate – grants of up to $5,000 (excluding GST)
• Tier 2 – 50% rebate – grants of up to $20,000 (excluding GST)

Applicants that have already applied for Tier 1 funding will have the opportunity to access additional funding under Tier 2. This will be up to the difference between the funding already allocated and the maximum funding available under Tier 2. Existing applicants will be contacted directly about accessing Tier 2 – there is no need to reapply at this time.

Tier 1 has been available through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) since last year. View the guidelines and submit an application for the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.

The new Drought Support Package has been designed in consultation with primary producers and key industry bodies. It takes the total drought assistance available from the State Government to $73 million.

An additional $4 million has also been allocated to assist charities with freight costs of transporting donated fodder to assist farmers with feeding livestock, bringing the total to $6 million.

PIRSA continues to work with charities to target fodder to farmers of greatest need. Charities can apply to take part in the SA Donated Fodder Transport Drought Assistance Scheme. Primary producers can register by directly contacting any organisation that is delivering fodder in their region, as listed on the scheme webpage.

The $73 million is in addition and complementary to existing support from the Australian Government. It includes:

• concessional loans
• income and other financial supports through the Farm Household Allowance
• the Farm Management Deposit Scheme
• ATO measures such as payment plans, tax deductions, and small business tax concessions.

For more information about Australian Government drought support, please visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.

Find more information on SA drought support.