The Australian Government’s $30 million On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP) is now accepting applications for rebates of between $3,000 and $30,000 for eligible equipment purchased by primary producers.
Funded through the October 2022-23 Federal Budget, the OFCP will enable primary producers in agriculture, forestry and fisheries to extend connectivity further onto their properties and take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology.
The program will provide 50 per cent rebates for the cost of smart farming technology that can help to optimise soil quality and nutrient levels, monitor livestock, improve efficiency of water use, streamline farm logistics and boost customer connections throughout the world.
Following an expression of interest process earlier this year, 77 equipment suppliers have signed on to the program and will be able to apply for rebates for a wide range of technology including external antennas, repeaters, boosters, sensors, automated tank systems and pump controllers, animal movement tags and relevant installation and training costs.
The OFCP is part of the Australian Government’s $656 million Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia which is improving mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in communities across the country.
