Eligible farmers in the Millewa region in Victoria can now benefit from rebates under the extension to the Australian Government’s $100 million On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.

Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster said this is great news for farmers in the Millewa and will help them prepare for the next inevitable drought.

“These farmers have faced significant hardship following a crippling and prolonged drought and this welcome investment will help farmers bounce back. Looking to the future, they will be able to keep livestock watered and permanent plantings alive,” Dr Webster said.”

Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt welcomed the Victorian Government’s decision to extend the scheme to drought-affected farmers in Millewa in Victoria’s north-west.

“I am pleased that funding under the scheme will be available to more Victorian farmers, supporting them to improve productivity now so they are better prepared for future drought,” Minister Pitt said.

“The popular scheme can be used to fund small scale on-farm, drought-proofing water projects, including buying and laying pipes, installing water storage devices, such as tanks and troughs associated with stock watering, and de-silting dams and drilling water bores.”

Dr Webster encouraged farmers in the area to get on the front foot with their applications.

“Farmers need to get their applications in as soon as possible because applications close on 6 May 2022 or when funds are exhausted.”

More information about the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme is at the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s website.

For more information on how to access the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate in Victoria, including guidelines and application forms, contact Rural Finance to discuss eligibility requirements on 1800 260 425 or visit ruralfinance.com.au