New programmes focus on managing natural resources and improving productivity in variable weather
The Australian federal government has announced it will launch two new programmes as part of the A$519.1m second phase of the Future Drought Fund, which aims to give growers more opportunities to prepare for drought.
“Our government is fixing the Future Drought Fund and its objectives to get the very best results for farming families and communities,” said minister for agriculture, fisheries and forestry, Julie Collins.
“This will enable farmers, agribusinesses and rural communities to look at new ways to strengthen and prepare businesses for drought.”
The Resilient Landscapes Program and the Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices – Round 2 Program are open for the next eight weeks, providing potential applicants time to start thinking about, and preparing, new projects.
The A$40m programmes will be delivered over six years by consortiums, providing funding for long-term change. According to Collins, the programmes also aim to improve communication between participants and tailor activities for local needs.
The Resilient Landscapes Program focuses on practices and techniques to manage natural resources on farms, particularly regarding natural resources that can determine whether a property copes with dry weather.
The Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program looks at investigating new practices and technologies that will improve productivity in variable weather through evidence-based trials, co-designed with growers.
“Drought in Australia is a matter of when, not if. It’s important that farmers look at all their options to prepare for will inevitably come in the future,” Collins said.
“I encourage all farmers to look at the criteria and see if they can take advantage of this valuable opportunity.”
