Minister for Resources and Water, the Hon Keith Pitt MP
Victorian Minister for Agriculture and Victorian Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Mary-Anne Thomas MP
While conditions have improved across the country, the Australian and Victorian Governments are bolstering support for more drought affected farmers through the $100 million On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
More Victorian farmers can now access rebates under the Scheme following changes to its eligibility criteria.
Minister for Resources and Water, Keith Pitt said the scheme has been extended to the north-west with farmers in the Millewa now able to apply for a rebate to modernise farm water infrastructure, improve productivity and prepare for future drought.
"I welcome the expansion of the scheme to the Millewa region, as well as changes to eligibility that have made the scheme accessible to more drought-affected farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington," Minister Pitt said.
"Extending the scheme to Millewa farmers provides much-needed support to help respond to low rainfall and recent variable harvests."
Farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington who received a rebate under the initial scheme can now also apply for another rebate under round two and receive the maximum $25,000 rebate.
Victorian Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said the extension of the scheme would provide further support to the hardest hit farmers in drought-affected areas.
"Now is the time to invest in efficient and modern on-farm water infrastructure. We want to support Victorian farmers to upgrade their farms so they can be more resilient and adapt to a changing climate."
"Not only will this allow farmers to be more productive but it will boost local economies and support our regional communities to continue to thrive." Minister Thomas said.
"I want as many Victorian farmers to benefit from this scheme as possible, so if you are eligible apply for a rebate as soon as you can."
Applications close on 6 May 2022 or when funds are fully exhausted.
