Fighting drought with Water for Fodder

The Hon David Littleproud MP
Minister for Water Resources, Drought, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency Management
  • Guidelines released for the Federal Government’s Water for Fodder program
  • First 40 GL instalment to be available from the second week of December
  • Part of the 100 GL of discounted available for fodder and pasture production
  • Eligible growers can apply to purchase up to two 50 ML parcels at $100/ML
  • Heavily discounted water for fodder will be available for farmers in the southern connected Basin from the second week of December.

    Farmers can apply to purchase water from the Commonwealth Water for Fodder program.

    Minister for Water Resources and Drought David Littleproud released guidelines for the program today.

    “Water for Fodder will help farmers feed livestock so they can recover quickly when the drought breaks,” Minister Littleproud said.

    “It will help farmers keep their herds healthy so they’re not forced to destock.

    “This keeps farmers doing what they do best and provides hope in tough times.

    “Farmers can apply for the first 40 GL in the second week of December with water flowing by Christmas.

    “I commend South Australia for helping make this 100 GL available and affordable.

    “Using their desalination plant will make sure Adelaide has enough water while freeing up water in the Murray for farmers.

    “This programme will produce up to 120,000 tonnes of fodder, supporting a healthy, working Basin.

    “Our vision is for farm businesses and rural communities to be prepared for and capable of managing drought. This is just one part of our drought plan.”

    For eligibility and to apply, visit https://www.agriculture.gov.au/water/mdb/programs/basin-wide/water-for-fodder

    /Public Release. View in full here.