In response to South Australia’s severe drought conditions, the State Government has unveiled an $18 million support package to assist affected farming communities.
This initiative includes $5 million allocated for the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme which provides critical support for primary producers in South Australia, assisting with infrastructure investments that improve drought management and preparedness.
The comprehensive package also provides funding for mental health services, community support programs, and assistance with transporting donated fodder, aiming to bolster both the resilience and well-being of farmers during these challenging times.
Purpose of the Scheme
The scheme offers a 75% rebate (up to $5,000 GST exclusive) to eligible primary producers for on-farm infrastructure projects that:
- Address current drought conditions.
- Enhance preparedness for future droughts.
Producers must contribute at least 25% of the total cost, without using other government funding for this contribution. Read full guideline here.
Funding Details
- Maximum rebate: $5,000 per ABN.
- Total funding pool: $5 million, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Rebates are capped at one application per ABN and require complete payment evidence.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify:
- Business Requirements:
- Must operate in the primary production industry.
- Hold an ABN (registered before 26 November 2024) and be GST registered.
- Derive more than 50% of gross income from primary production under normal conditions or plan to within three years (for new entrants).
- Property Requirements:
- Located in South Australia.
- Infrastructure must be new or repaired/replaced after 26 November 2024.
- Funding Rules:
- Applicants cannot use other government funding for the same project or their 25% contribution.
Eligible Activities
Rebates apply to infrastructure directly supporting drought resilience, such as:
- Stock containment areas: Fencing, gates, troughs, tanks, and pumps.
- Water systems: Reticulated systems, desalination plants, leak detection units, and water level sensors.
- Livestock management: New or upgraded water infrastructure.
- Irrigation upgrades: Automated systems to improve efficiency.
- Technology: Soil moisture monitoring, weather stations, telemetry equipment.
- Fencing: Exclusion fencing for wildlife and internal fencing for land management.
- Grain and fodder storage: Silos, hay sheds.
- Contractor hire for eligible activities.
Ineligible Activities
Rebates will not cover:
- Operating costs, wages, or standard production tools.
- Equipment not directly related to drought management.
- Pre-26 November 2024 projects, land purchases, or standard fencing.
- Livestock, vehicles, or annual costs.
List of Bushmans Products
| Suitable Bushmans Products |
| Liquid Storage Solutions |
| 660L up to 46,400L Water Tank |
| 660L up to 46,400L Storm Water Tanks |
| 1,200L up to 46,400L Water Treatment Tanks & Systems |
| Agriculture products |
| 5,000L up to 30,000L Fertiliser Tanks |
| 5,000L up to 38,000L Molasses Tanks |
| 33L up to 5,610L Water Troughs & Feeders |
| Technology Products |
| 660L up to 46,400L TankSmart |
| Water Level Monitoring Systems |
Application Process
- Submission: Applications and supporting documents (tax invoices, receipts, and approvals) must be submitted online via PIRSA’s portal.
- Review: Complete applications are assessed in order of receipt; incomplete submissions are delayed.
- Approval: Final decisions rest with the Minister (or delegate).
- Payment: Rebates are paid after verifying eligibility and expenditure evidence.
Contact Information
For queries or assistance, contact:
- PIRSA Recovery Information Line: 1800 931 314
- Email: PIRSA.Recovery@sa.gov.au
