Farm drought support grants

The Victorian Government has established a farm drought support grants program. This program aims to assist primary production businesses to implement on-farm infrastructure to improve and better prepare for drought management.

Eligible primary production businesses can receive a grant of up to $10,000 (excluding GST), based on a dollar for dollar matching co-contribution. Applicants are required to cover the initial cost of the project, after which the grant will cover 50% of the total cost of eligible activities (up to $10,000 excluding GST).

If you have already accessed the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grant of $5,000, you can apply for the difference between what you have received to date up to the maximum $10,000 (excluding GST).

What type of projects may be eligible?

The grant covers new construction or upgrading for existing assets, such as:

• Stock Containment Areas (SCA)
• reticulated water systems
• irrigation system upgrades
• grain and fodder storage
• internal re-fencing to better match property layout
• feed system upgrades
• pasture/crop restoration
• water carting for livestock and essential business activities.

Which local government areas are included in the Southwest Region?

• Ararat
• Colac Otway
• Corangamite
• Glenelg
• Golden Plains
• City of Greater Geelong
• Moyne
• Pyrenees
• Southern Grampians
• Surf Coast
• Warrnambool
• West Wimmera*

*only primary production businesses located in post codes 3312, 3317, 3318 and 3319 are eligible to apply.

How do you apply?

Applications can be submitted online, via email or by post to Rural Finance:
Online: Start your online application- external site
Email: admin@ruralfinance.com.au
Post: Rural Finance, PO Box 1313, Bendigo Central 3552

Duration of the program:
The grants will be available from the date the program opens until program funds are fully allocated or 30 June 2026, whichever occurs first.

For further information please visit Grants | Rural Finance

Published date: 04/09/2025