S.A. State Government On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme Now Open
Posted on 24/4/2025
Agribusiness
Overview:
The South Australian Government’s On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme is now open, offering up to $20,000 in infrastructure rebates to help producers manage the immediate impacts of drought and strengthen long-term resilience. Read on to learn if your agribusiness is eligible.
What is the Scheme?
The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme provides financial assistance to eligible South Australian primary producers for the purchase, installation, repair, or replacement of on-farm drought resilience infrastructure.
Key funding details include:
Tier | Rebate % | Maximum Grant Ex. GST | Applicant Contribution | Notes |
Tier 1 | 75% | $5,000 | 25% | Ideal for smaller projects. |
Tier 2 | 50% | $20,000 | 50% | For larger investments. |
Eligible businesses may begin with Tier 1 and later access Tier 2 to top up funding up to the full $20,000.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a property owner, share-farmer or lessee in SA, or a commercial apiarist (min. 50 hives).
- Derive more than 50% of gross income from their Primary Production Business (or be on track to do so within 3 years).
- Hold an ABN registered before 26 Nov 2024 and be GST-registered.
- Ensure infrastructure is located on-farm and purchased after 26 Nov 2024.
- Not receive funding for the same works from other Government sources.
What Infrastructure Is Eligible?
The rebate covers a broad scope of activities that directly support drought resilience. These include but are not limited to:
Water Security
- Reticulated water systems (pipes, pumps, tanks, troughs)
- Drilling of stock water bores
- Desalination and water quality monitoring equipment
Feed & Fodder Storage
- Silos, hay sheds, silage bunkers
- Feeding infrastructure (e.g., feed pads)
Technology & Efficiency
- Soil moisture probes, telemetry sensors
- Automated irrigation systems
Property Improvements
- Internal fencing, laneway upgrades
- Stock containment areas
Apiary Operations
- Feeders, water systems, storage facilities
Note: Ineligible activities include vehicle purchases, wages, fodder carting, general repairs, and standard farm machinery replacements.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) website.
You will need:
- Tax invoices and receipts (or quotes for pre-approval)
- Acquittal form (for completed works)
- ABN, proof of GST registration, and eligibility documentation
Pre-approval is encouraged to secure funding before committing to new works. Once pre-approved, producers have six months to complete the work.
Why It Matters
With increasing climate volatility, proactive investment in drought resilience is more important than ever. This scheme presents a timely opportunity for producers to strengthen their infrastructure, secure livestock water supplies, and ensure sustainable farm operations during future dry spells.
Need Help Navigating Your Application?
At Perks, our Agribusiness and Tax Consulting Specialists understand the complexities of grant funding and infrastructure planning. We can:
- Assess your eligibility
- Guide your pre-approval and rebate submission
- Assist with structuring your cash flow and financing if upfront costs are a concern
Get in touch with your Perks Adviser or our Perks Agribusiness Specialists to ensure you don’t miss out.
