As Victoria and South Australia face increasingly dry conditions, many farming communities are once again under pressure. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, rainfall has been below average across much of the state, with key agricultural regions experiencing reduced soil moisture and water stress. For farmers, this means planning ahead is more important than ever. (Source: ABC News & BOM)
At Bushmans, we understand the impact drought has on daily operations. Water tanks are more than just storage—they’re your farm’s lifeline. Whether it’s for stock watering, household use, or irrigation, our tanks are built to handle Australia’s toughest weather conditions. And right now, government support is available to help make these upgrades more affordable.
Victorian Drought Support – Up to $5,000 Available
For eligible primary producers in Victoria, the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Support Grant offers up to $5,000 (excluding GST) in matched funding to invest in practical solutions that improve resilience to drought. This includes:
- Constructing or upgrading Stock Containment Areas (SCA)
- Installing or upgrading reticulated water systems
- Irrigation system upgrades
- Grain and fodder storage improvements
- Internal re-fencing to optimise property layout
- Feed system upgrade
Farmers must be located in one of the eligible LGAs and meet program criteria. This grant is available through Rural Finance Victoria. Learn more about which tank sizes and what post codes are contemplated in grant here.
Read the full guidelines here:
https://www.ruralfinance.com.au/globalassets/ruralfinance/grants/on-farmdroughtinfrastructure/on-farm-drought-infrastructure-grant-guidelines.pdf
SA Border Region Support – Up to $5,000 Rebate
If you’re farming in South Australia near the VIC border, you may be eligible for the SA On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme. This program offers a rebate of up to 75% (capped at $5,000) on approved infrastructure costs, including:
- 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.
Learn more about which tanks and sizes you can get here.
This is a fantastic opportunity for farmers in regions in the border of SA & VIC, where the drought continues to bite.
Full guidelines available here:
https://www.pir.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/472155/on-farm-drought-infrastructure-rebate-scheme-guidelines.pdf
Bushmans Is Here to Help
Bushmans Tanks meet the eligibility criteria for both grants and are backed by 35 years of experience helping Australian farmers manage water efficiently. From high-quality poly tanks to large steel water storage, we’ll help you find the right setup for your property and support you in navigating your grant options.
Get in touch today to speak with our friendly team about eligible tanks, delivery, and pricing on 1800 008 888.
Because when every drop counts, Bushmans delivers.
