The Victorian Government has established the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program to assist primary production businesses to implement on-farm infrastructure that improves drought management and preparedness.

A grant of up to $5,000 (excluding GST) per eligible primary production business is available to assist with implementation of on-farm infrastructure improvements. Eligible primary production businesses are required to provide dollar for dollar matching funding co-contribution.

The grant covers activities like constructing a new or upgrading existing Stock Containment Areas (SCA), reticulated water systems, irrigation system upgrades, grain and fodder storage, internal re-fencing to better match property layout and feed system upgrades.

The Grants will be available from the date the program opens until program funds are fully allocated.

On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants assessment and approval process:

• The application will be assessed by Rural Finance and Rural Finance will notify the applicant of either in-principle approval or rejection of their proposal.
• Upon receiving written ‘in-principle’ approval, applicants must purchase the infrastructure investment within three months of the date of the in-principle approval.
• Applicants are required to cover the initial cost of the project and/or activity, after which Rural Finance will reimburse the grant amount. The grant will cover 50% of the total cost of the infrastructure investment (up to $5,000 excluding GST).
• Upon completion of the infrastructure project, applicants must submit evidence of payment, which includes tax invoices and official receipts or bank statements, to Rural Finance.

Which Local Government Areas are covered?

• Ararat
• Colac Otway
• Corangamite
• Glenelg
• Golden Plains
• City of Greater Geelong
• Moyne
• Pyrenees
• Southern Grampians
• Surf Coast
• Warrnambool
• West Wimmera*

*only primary production businesses located in post codes 3312, 3317, 3318 and 3319 are eligible to apply

How do I apply?

Please read the Program Guidelines to ensure that your business is eligible before completing an application. To avoid any delay in the processing of your application, please ensure you have provided all the information and documentation required with your completed application.

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

Online: Please CLICK HERE to start your application online

Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

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.