Heavily-discounted water under the Federal Government’s Water for Fodder Program is set to flow after an independent ballot to selected 800 successful applications.
Over 4,000 applications were received for the 40 gigalitres on offer.
Minister for Water Resources and Drought David Littleproud said this goes to show how keen farmers are to participate in this program.
“Farm businesses are looking for ways to earn a quid during the drought and we’re providing that with Water for Fodder,” Minister Littleproud said.
“This water is only for growing fodder, silage and pasture. Fodder cannot be a by-product.
“All applicants, successful or not, have been notified by email.
“Farmers selected through the ballot will have 30 business days to submit their paperwork. The sooner it’s in, the sooner water starts to flow.
“Farmers who have missed out will have another chance with 60 gigalitres available in the new year.
“The first round will be assessed and guide how the remaining water is allocated.”
Fast Facts:
- The Water for Fodder program is part of the Australian Government’s drought response. It is available for primary producers, including dairy farmers, in the southern connected Murray-Darling Basin.
- Round 1 of the Water for Fodder made 40 GL available in the 2019-20 water year. Round 2 will make 60 GL available in the 2020-21 water year.
- 100 GL could produce up to 120,000 tonnes of feed for animals.
