The Victorian Government announced in September 2024 that it will be providing support to primary producer farmers impacted by severe drought conditions. The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grant Program aims to support farmers who require on-farm upgrades, in order to provide relief in drought management.
As droughts increase across Australia, particularly in the Southern half of Australia, many Victorian farmers are in need of this support to keep businesses running. The Victorian Government will be providing direct drought support of $67.2 million, which includes;
On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grant Program Key Points
- Up to $10,000 (excl. GST) funding in eligible South West Victoria LGAs, and up to $5000 (excl. GST) in all other eligible LGAs. Dollar-for-dollar co-contribution required for both these grants
- Supports on-farm upgrades to help manage drought and improve long-term resilience for eligible Primary Producers
- Administered by Rural Finance on behalf of the Victorian Government
- Applications will be accepted until funds are fully allocated
As of May 2025, this Grant Program has been expanded to include even more primary producer businesses located in all Victorian local government areas, further helping those who need this crucial support.
In June 2025, The Victorian Government released an eligibility map of the Drought Support Packages available in Victoria;
Image Source: Agriculture VictoriaEligible Infrastructure Improvements Includes;
- Water infrastructure improvements (such as irrigation pumps, upgrading tanks, replacing troughs)
- Reticulated water systems using pumps, tanks and troughs for livestock
- Items to construct a new, or upgrade an existing Stock Containment Area (includes items like tanks, pumps, troughs, fencing and gates)
- Fodder and grain storage (e.g silos, hay sheds)
- Feeding system upgrades (such as feed troughs)
- Soil moisture monitors and weather stations (technology to improve drought management efficiencies)
- Improving waste water and effluent management systems
- Plus more
It is important to keep in mind that some ineligible activities and expenses not included are things such as purchasing, leasing, or acquiring land, vehicles, or purchasing livestock, as a few examples. For a full list of what is eligible, visit Rural Finance.
UPDATE: As of June 2025, eligible activities under the grant program are currently being expanded to cover activities such as water carting, and pasture re-establishment. For any further clarification or updates on eligible activities, please contact Rural Finance.
LGAs in South West Victoria Eligible for up to $10,000 funding:
- Ararat
- Moyne
- Colac Otway
- Pyrenees
- Corangamite
- Southern Grampians
- Glenelg
- Surf Coast
- Golden Plains
- Warrnambool
- City of Greater Geelong
- West Wimmera (postcodes 3312, 3317, 3318 and 3319)
Applicants in all other parts of Victoria are eligible to apply for $5,000 funding
How to Apply:
- Farmers in South West Victoria (from the original eligible areas) can apply here
- Newly eligible farmers can register their interest via [email protected], while updated guidelines are being finalised
- Applications are processed in the order they are received — we strongly recommend taking early action to secure your chance at a grant
- The program will close when funding is fully allocated, so make sure you apply/register your interest as early as possible
Helpful Links & Contact Information:
- Contact Rural Finance: 1800 260 425
More:
Bushmans Is Here to Help
Bushmans Tanks meets the eligibility criteria to assist with this program, and are backed by 35 years of experience helping Australian farmers manage water efficiently. From high-quality poly tanks to large steel water storage, we’ll help you find the right setup for your property and support you in navigating your grant options.
Suitable Bushmans Products
Liquid Storage Solutions
660L up to 46,400L Water Tank
660L up to 46,400L Industrial Water Tank
660L up to 46,400L Storm Water Tanks
1,200L up to 46,400L Water Treatment Tanks & Systems
Agriculture products
5,000L up to 30,000L Fertiliser Tanks
5,000L up to 30,000L Molasses Tanks
33L up to 5,610L Water Troughs & Feeders
Get in touch today to speak with our friendly team about eligible tanks, delivery, and pricing on 1800 008 888. Because when every drop counts, Bushmans delivers.
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