- Successful providers must have specialist expertise and capability to deliver the program activities tailored to regional needs across the nation.
- Part of the Australian Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund.
Two competitive grants rounds opening today worth $11.2 million will go towards building and maintaining drought resilience throughout Australia.
NSW Nationals Senator Perin Davey said the programs funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund would provide vital support for farmers and communities throughout NSW to prepare for drought events.
“The $5 billion Future Drought Fund provides secure, continuous funding for drought resilience initiatives,” Senator Davey said.
“It helps farms and communities prepare for and deal with the significant economic, social and environmental impacts of drought.
“We know community networks and leaders play a critical role in supporting people in rural and regional communities prepare for, and live through, times of drought.
“Our $3.75 million Networks to Build Drought Resilience program is about strengthening the community networks and facilities that help people when the next drought inevitably comes.
“Our $7.45 million Drought Resilience Leaders program will support young and emerging leaders from across a range of sectors to develop, share and apply their skills and knowledge within their community.”
“The programs are closely related and provide support to regional and rural communities as part of the broader objectives set out under the Future Drought Fund and the Drought Resilience Funding Plan“.
Senator Davey explained the programs will be managed by external providers who have specialist expertise to deliver activities tailored to regional needs to build stronger networks and support wellbeing and resilience.
“Applications are open to single organisations and consortiums. We’re looking for providers that can provide national reach, but also respond to regional needs”.
Applications close 25 September 2020, and successful providers are expected to be announced later this year. To apply visit the Grants Connect website: www.grants.gov.au
The programs form part of the first, foundational, year of the Future Drought Fund, and will be built on by subsequent investments from the $5 billion Fund.
For more information about Future Drought Fund programs visit www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought/future-drought-fund