Farmers in the southern connected Murray-Darling Basin can apply to purchase water at a discounted rate from today.
Minister for Water Resources and Drought David Littleproud said this the water would help support farmers in Basin communities facing tough decisions about crops and livestock.
"The water can only be used to grow much-needed fodder, pasture and silage," Minister Littleproud said.
"This will make a real difference to farmers trying to protect important breeding stock.
"It will also help them through the drought so they can get back on their feet faster once it rains.
"40 gigalitres is available this year for use before 30 June next year.
"Eligible farmers can buy up to two parcels of 50 megalitres at $5,000.00 a parcel.
"We want as many farmers as possible to take advantage of this drought measure. https://www.agriculture.gov.au/water/mdb/programs/basin-wide/water-for-fodder
"I urge farmers to check their eligibility through the guidelines which can be found online."
Guidelines can be found at: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/water/mdb/programs/basin-wide/water-for-…
Fast Facts:
- Applications must be submitted using the electronic form on the Water for Fodder website.
- Eligible primary producers, including dairy farmers, in the southern connected Murray-Darling Basin can apply to purchase 50 megalitres for $5,000.
- A second instalment of Water for Fodder will make 60 gigalitres of water available in 2020-21.
- Water for Fodder is one measure of the Australian Government's Drought Response, Resilience and Preparedness Plan
