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Drought support package

Drought Support News
Drought Support News

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The State Government is investing $73 million to support farmers affected by drought in SA –

The package has been designed in direct consultation with primary producers, including roundtables with farmers and key industry bodies.

For more information about the drought support package, see the media release.

Drought statement from the Minister

You can include this drought statement from the Minister ( PDF 60.4 KB ) to support any applications regarding financial hardship due to drought.

Drought support programs

For information on support programs available from the Australian Government, see Drought, disaster and rural support.

Support programs available from the Government of South Australia are listed below – the tile will direct you to the relevant agency's webpage.

Active Club Program – Regional Drought Relief Round

Sporting clubs in regional areas affected by drought can apply for up to $5,000 for their communities to stay active. Go to the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing website.

Bundaleer Reservoir water for stock

Primary producers can collect water for stock from Bundaleer Reservoir.

Connecting Communities Events Grant

Funding for gatherings that encourage communities to come together, share experiences, and reinforce the unity and strength of rural areas.

Donated Fodder Transport Scheme

A scheme contributing to the freight cost of charitable organisations that are delivering fodder to primary producers.

Drought Mental Health Support

This program delivered by SA Health will focus on supporting individuals and strengthening families and communities, reinforcing the community connections that are vital to positive mental health and wellbeing and resilience.

Drought support vehicle registration rebate

Drought-affected farmers can apply for a rebate on the registration of up to 3 commercial vehicles registered in your or your company’s name.

Electronic identification (eID) for sheep and farmed goats

A further $4.5 million has been allocated to support producers with the implementation of eID tags.

Emergency bulk water collection points

$1.1 million has been allocated to provide temporary bulk water collection points for critical water needs in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu. Go to the Department for Environment and Water website.

Emergency Services Levy Rebate

Primary producers receiving the Commonwealth Farm Household Allowance (FHA) can apply for the 2025–26 Emergency Services Levy Rebate. Go to RevenueSA website.

Family and Business Mentors (FaBs)

PIRSA's FaB Mentors are available to help primary producers navigate challenging times. This is a free service in South Australia, identifying assistance specific to your situation.

Feral Deer Eradication Program

A program to eliminate the impacts feral deer have on primary industries, the environment and public safety.

Feral rabbit control

Program to reduce wild rabbit populations that graze on vegetation, crops, and pastures.

Financial support for student camps and excursions

[APPLICATIONS CLOSED] Funding from the Department for Education to support country students at public schools financially impacted by drought to participate in camps and excursions.

Future Drought Fund Preparedness and Resilience programs

Additional funding has been allocated to Future Drought Fund preparedness and resilience programs.

Imported fodder inspection fees waived

Drought-impacted South Australian farmers will not have to pay the $167 hourly fee usually required for inspections of incoming fodder.

On-farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme

Funding for primary producers to implement infrastructure projects that assist with managing current drought conditions and strengthen preparedness for future droughts.

Publicly Accessible Standpipe Upgrade Fund

Funding for councils to support the upgrade of publicly accessible standpipes in regional areas.

Reducing grazing pressure through kangaroo management

A program to reduce the currently high kangaroo numbers which can severely impact crops, pastures, and native vegetation.

Regional Event Fund – Drought Relief

Encouraging new events and supporting the growth of existing events to provide economic stimulus to drought-affected regional communities. Go to the South Australian Tourism Commission website.

Rural Financial Counselling Support

Additional funding has been allocated to the Rural Financial Counselling Service to support drought-affected primary producers. Go to the Rural Business Support website.

Rural Support Grant

Grants providing up to $1,500 in financial assistance to eligible SA primary producers and rural small business owners experiencing significant financial hardship. Go to the Rural Business Support website.

Small business support

The Department of State Development is finalising initiatives including financial counselling support and small business fundamentals programs – information available soon.

Technical advisory telephone service

Primary producers who have been impacted by drought can phone for free technical advice from experts on livestock management, agronomy and soil management.

Contact us

For assistance with funding applications, discussing your situation, and finding the support you need. The hotline is staffed Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.

Recovery hotline 1800 931 314 Email: pirsa.recovery@sa.gov.au
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