Drought in WA. Source : Willem van Aken on Science Image (used under Creative Commons)
A grants program has opened up applications to support research into drought resilience.
The Long-Term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Grants program is a part of the Future Drought Fund (FDF)
The FDF provides $100 million a year for programs dedicated to building the resilience of farming to droughts.
The aim of the grants program is to fill in research and scientific gaps regarding farming practices that are effective in building resilience to droughts.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Murray Watt, said the grants will be up to $8 million per application and specifically target the grain cropping and livestock grazing part of the industry.
“This program reflects the Albanese Government’s commitment to climate action and resilience.” Mr Watt said.
“Evidence suggests that the grain cropping and livestock grazing sectors – which account for around 60 per cent of all Australian farming businesses – are particularly susceptible to productivity losses due to climate change.
“It continues the work of the FDF in supporting farmers and regional communities to better manage dry conditions in the future and improve and apply drought resilience to increase profitability and sustainability in a changing climate.
“The eligibility is broad, but ideas for projects could include technology to conserve pastures, soil, or water management or diversification works.” He said.
The grant applications will close on 15 March 2023.
Among the eligible projects will be those that test, refine, and demonstrate the effectiveness of not yet proven farming practices as per scientific principles.
From the first submission, within 8 weeks of the closing period, applications will be assessed.
After the assessment period, applications will be selected and approved.
Once the applications have been sorted through, negotiations and the awarding of grant agreements will occur.
The end of the grant activity or agreement will be 30 June 2028.
