On 2 October 2020, the Australian Government announced an additional $50 million of funding for the expansion of the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme in 2020-21.
The roll-out of the expanded scheme is currently being negotiated with all states and territories. The scheme in WA was initially over-subscribed, causing frustrations for many farmers so this new announcement is welcome news.
The rebate available is for 25% up to a maximum of $25,000 for the purchase, delivery and installation of new water infrastructure to address animal welfare and permanent planting water needs, improving resilience to drought.
Eligible items for livestock farmers include water storage devices such as tanks and troughs, pipes, fittings and pumps associated with water distribution systems, new bores and the desilting of dams by a contractor. Applications for rebates may be applied to costs incurred after 30 June 2018.
Eligible items for horticulture (permanent plantings) farmers include drilling of new horticulture groundwater bores and the desilting of dams by a contractor. Applications for rebate may be applied to costs incurred after 30 June 2019. Further details on eligible activities are available here https://www.water.wa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/9691/115200.pdf
The scheme will close on 30 April 2021. Applications must be submitted online, with evidence (ie receipts) of expenditure on eligible activities attached to the application. There is no limit to the number of applications you can submit, up to a total maximum rebate amount of $25,000.
As the program became quickly oversubscribed initially, it may be a good idea to submit an application as soon as possible for eligible expenses you have already incurred, rather than waiting until you have completed all of your planned works, as the scheme will pay rebates in the order they are received. As you undertake more eligible works, submit additional applications. Please also be aware that there is no guarantee that your rebate will be paid..
More information and a link to the application can be found here:
If you would like more information, please contact our RALF team.
Annabelle Garratt (E) Annabelle.Garratt@nacc.com.au or (P) 0448 986 879 or Lizzie King (E) Lizzie.King@nacc.com.au or (P) 0447 361 335
