Make on-farm upgrades this autumn with a drought grant

28 April 2026

Farm Drought Support Grants are available to primary producers across the state to support on-farm infrastructure improvements and essential business activities.

Director Agriculture Services Kate Linden said the grants were available for water infrastructure upgrades, stock containment areas, grain and fodder storage, water carting and pasture re-establishment.

‘With up to $5,000 available across the state and up to $10,000 for farmers in the south west, we encourage primary producers to take up this opportunity while it is still available.

‘Farmers can claim eligible costs they have incurred since 30 September 2024. For example, if you bought a new silo back in October 2024, you could claim that expense when applying for a grant today.

‘As part of your co-contribution to the grant, you can also combine receipts from multiple eligible expenses incurred since 30 September 2024.

‘If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, you can contact Rural Finance for guidance or speak to the Rural Financial Counselling Service to discuss the full range of support that’s available,’ Ms Linden said.

Grant funding can be used to support a range of on-farm activities, including:

Constructing new or upgrading existing:

• Stock Containment Areas
• Reticulated water systems such as pipes, pumps, tanks, and troughs
• Irrigation systems including upgrading to automated systems
• Grain and fodder storage such as silos, silage bunkers and hay sheds
• Internal re-fencing for improved property layout
• Feed systems such as feed pads or feed troughs.

Essential business activities:

• Pasture and crop restoration, which includes associated costs for seed, fertiliser, contractors, cultivation, sowing, direct drilling, smudging, harrowing and rolling
• Water carting for livestock and essential activities - such as dairy washdown.

This program is part of the Victorian Government’s comprehensive $146.5 million drought support package and is administered by Rural Finance on behalf of the Victorian Government.

Find out more and apply at Rural Finance.

Find more information about available drought support by visiting Drought support or call 136 186.

Media contact: media@deeca.vic.gov.au