Financial Support for Drought-Affected Farmers in Victoria with Bushmans Tanks

On September 30, 2024, the Victorian Government announced a $13.53 million drought support package to assist farmers facing prolonged dry conditions across south-west Victoria. This initiative aims to provide much-needed financial relief for farming communities, addressing critical shortages in water and feed that have impacted livestock and crop viability since early winter 2023. As part of this package, the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program offers primary producers the opportunity to improve their infrastructure, strengthening their resilience and preparedness for future droughts.

What Is the Grant?

Eligible primary production businesses can receive up to $5,000 (excluding GST) to assist with on-farm infrastructure improvements, such as:

• Constructing or upgrading Stock Containment Areas (SCA)
• Installing or upgrading reticulated water systems
• Irrigation system upgrades
• Grain and fodder storage improvements
• Internal re-fencing to optimise property layout
• Feed system upgrades

List of Bushmans Products

How Does the Funding Work?

The grant operates on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis, meaning you will need to contribute an equal amount of funding to match the grant. Once approved, Rural Finance will reimburse 50% of the total cost of your infrastructure project, up to $5,000 (excluding GST).

Grant Amount and Co-Contribution

• Minimum Grant: $1,000 (excluding GST).
• Maximum Grant: $5,000 (excluding GST).

Who Can Apply for the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants?

Eligible primary production businesses that meet the following criteria:

• Location: The business must be located in an eligible Local Government Area (LGA) or specific postcodes within the West Wimmera LGA.
• Business Ownership: The applicant must own, share, or lease a primary production business within the eligible region.
• ABN Requirement: The applicant must hold a current Australian Business Number (ABN) and must have held it since the program announcement date (30 September 2024).
• Labour Contribution: The applicant must dedicate part of their labour to the primary production business.
• Income Criteria: The business must either:
  • Derive more than 50% of its gross income from primary production, or
  • Generate more than $75,000 in gross income from primary production in an average year. An average year refers to one with no extreme climatic conditions (such as drought), where typical productivity and yields are achieved based on long-term commodity prices.

Additional Eligibility Criteria

• One Grant Per Applicant: Each applicant can only receive one grant, even if an applicant operates more than one primary production business.
• Eligible Infrastructure: Only infrastructure projects started after 30 September 2024 (the program announcement date) will be eligible for funding. Any projects completed and paid for before this date will not be considered.
• No Overlap with Other Funding Programs: Activities that are eligible for funding under other Commonwealth or State programs will not be eligible for this grant.

Covered Local Government Areas

This grant is available to primary production businesses in the following regions:

How to apply?

To get started, make sure your business meets the eligibility criteria by reviewing the Program Guidelines. Once confirmed, complete your application and submit all necessary documentation to avoid delays. If you need  more information, read the Program Guidelines here (ruralfinance.com.au).

Applications can be submitted online, by email or post to Rural Finance:

Online: Please CLICK HERE to start your application online

Email: [email protected]

Post: Rural Finance, PO Box 1313, Bendigo Central 3552

Please contact Rural Finance on 1800 260 425 if you have any questions.

Need help understanding this information or filling in your application?

Free and confidential assistance is available to primary producers via the Rural Financial Counselling Service. To find your local Rural Financial Counsellor, call 1300 771 741.

 Key Steps in the Application Process:

1. Submit Your Application: Your application will be reviewed by Rural Finance, which will provide you with either in-principle approval or a rejection.
2. Purchase Infrastructure: Upon receiving approval, you will have three months to purchase the infrastructure and begin the project.
3. Reimbursement: After completing the project, submit your tax invoices, official receipts, or bank statements to claim your reimbursement.

Why Preparedness Matters

While drought conditions can be unpredictable, staying prepared is crucial to ensure farming resilience during these challenging times. Accessing available support can make a substantial difference in managing resources and planning for the future. If you or someone you know could benefit from this support, reach out for assistance.

Call us today at 1800 008 888 to learn more about your options.