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Apply now and decide later on water purchases

Wednesday, 16 September 2009

River Murray irrigators are being urged to apply now for the State Government’s Irrigated Industry Support Program even if they haven’t yet decided on purchasing water.

PIRSA Director Sustainable Systems Helen Lamont says while more than 300 irrigators have already signalled interest in the program, she fears many will hold off applying until the last minute or maybe not apply at all.

“I urge all irrigators to apply now even if they haven’t made a decision yet on their water purchases,” she said.

“Applying for a grant will not commit you to purchase, but will provide financial support if you choose to.”

The IISP replaces last year’s Critical Water Allocation program. It will provide up to $260 a megalitre to help growers buy critical needs water for 2009 10.

The grants are available to viable farm businesses that are entitled to take water from the Murray and have permanent plantings, including vines and citrus. Non-permanent plantings such as vegetables and pastures are not eligible.

Ms Lamont says irrigators are also reminded that having a negative cash flow did not exclude them from the program.

“The important thing to remember is that we are assessing the long-term future of the business, and that is what irrigators will need to prove,” she said. “This is separate from any off-farm income they have.

“If you received a CWA last year, you will still need to go through the application process.

“However you will only need to update your information, confirming areas of plantings, last year’s tax return and a letter of support from your financier.”

To apply irrigators should contact the Riverland Drought Response Centre on free-call 1800 857 327 to arrange an interview at Berri, Waikerie, Murray Bridge or Adelaide.

Applications close at the end of October 2009.

For more Information visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/iisp.