The consultation on draft program guidelines follows an initial canvassing of industry interest in supplying connected machinery and connectivity equipment for primary producers earlier in the year.
Feedback on the guidelines, which will inform the funding application process, will ensure the program is fit-for-purpose for Australia’s agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industries.
The new $30 million program will enable primary producers to extend connectivity in their fields to boost productivity, improve health and safety and support sustainable resource management.
Rebates of up to $30,000 will be available for a wide range of technology, including external antennas, boosters and repeaters, soil moisture probes, plant growth monitors, valve and irrigation controllers, and livestock monitoring systems.
The Program forms part of the Governments $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which is improving mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in communities across the country.
Interested parties are encouraged to have their say on the draft Guidelines before they are finalised and Round 1 opens for applications. Consultation on the program guidelines is open until 23 August 2023 at 5pm AEDT.
To view the draft guidelines or to make a submission, please visit: Consultation on the OFCP Round 1 draft Guidelines | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
FIND OUT MORE
- Read about the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia program
- Read the Minister’s media release.
