Applications are now open for the Off-farm Efficiency Grants Program, which is a key part of the Federal Government’s commitment to put communities back at the heart of the Murray-Darling basin Plan.
Off-farm Efficiency Grants Program will generate water savings for the environment while also making more usable water available to farmers.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said $150 million is on the table through the Off-farm Efficiency Grants Program to help make our irrigation networks as efficient as possible, and to deliver commitments under the Basin Plan to enhance environmental outcomes.
“Funding will be made available over three years from 2021-22 to 2023-24 for smaller-scale projects with a minimum grant amount of $50,000.”
“Working with the local organisations and irrigators through this grant program will generate jobs, improve delivery of water to farms, and increase water available for growing crops – all while contributing towards the target.”
The Federal Government has put an end to water buybacks and we’re putting communities back at the heart of Basin Plan implementation. Saving water through the Off-Farm Program is a win for both farmers and for the environment.
“I encourage those organisations and entities interested in applying to read the guidelines to see if their great idea can help meet the program aims and then commence their application.” Mr Pasin said.
“Importantly all projects need to produce positive or neutral socio-economic benefits for their region and will need to work with their respective state government to undertake socio-economic testing and public consultations.” Mr Pasin said.
For more information on the guidelines around the Off-farm Efficiency Grants Program and to apply, visit: https://business.gov.au/ofegp
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