Farm Drought Support Grants: what farmers need to know

Got a farm water project on the list? It could be worth getting it moving sooner rather than later.

The Victorian Government’s Farm Drought Support Grants are currently available to help eligible farmers with drought preparedness and recovery projects.

Eligible farmers across Victoria can access up to $5,000 (ex-GST), while eligible farmers in south-west Victoria may be able to access up to $10,000 (ex-GST).

The funding is provided on a dollar-for-dollar co-contribution basis, and applications close 30 September 2026 or when funding is fully allocated, whichever comes first.

What farm water projects can be eligible?

Eligible activities can include:

• Pumps, including solar pumping
• Pipes and reticulated water systems
• Tanks and troughs
• Dams
• Irrigation system upgrades

Other drought preparedness and recovery activities may also be eligible.

Quick FAQs

How does the funding work?
It’s a dollar-for-dollar co-contribution. For example, an eligible $10,000 project could receive $5,000 in grant funding, subject to eligibility and approval.

I’m in south-west Victoria. How much could I receive?
Eligible farmers in designated south-west Victorian areas may be able to access up to $10,000 (ex-GST) in total funding.

I’ve already received a Farm Drought Support Grant. Can I apply again?
Potentially. If you’re an eligible south-west Victorian farmer and have previously received less than $10,000 through the program, you may be able to apply for the difference up to the current $10,000 maximum.

I’ve already completed some work. Is it too late?
Not necessarily. Eligible expenses incurred from 30 September 2024 may be considered, subject to the program requirements.

Can Finchetts apply for the grant for me?
No. The grant application is the customer’s responsibility. Finchetts does not assess applications, determine eligibility or guarantee grant approval.

What we can do is make you aware of the opportunity, help you with your farm water project, complete the work and provide relevant quotes, invoices and documentation to support your application.

Got a farm water project in mind?

Chat to Scott at Finchetts about pumps, solar pumping, tanks, troughs, pipework or larger farm water systems.

As your local Irrigear Independent Expert, Finchetts works with brands including Grundfos, Lorentz, Onga, Mono and Davey, with a 100km+ service area and 24/7 farm water emergency support.

Click here to talk to Scott about your farm water project. 

For eligibility, applications and full program conditions:

VIEW THE OFFICIAL FARM DROUGHT SUPPORT GRANT INFORMATION

Grant applications and eligibility are assessed by Rural Finance on behalf of the Victorian Government. Customers are responsible for confirming their eligibility and completing their application.