Media Release: Albanese Government providing more support for Aussie farmers to embrace agtech and connectivity solutions
23 August 2024
Joint Release with The Hon Julie Collins MP - Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Minister for Small Business; Senator the Hon Anthony Chisholm - Assistant Minister for Education, Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator for Queensland; Jennifer Medway - General Manager, Regional Tech Hub
Expressions of Interest are now open for businesses and suppliers of ag-tech to take part in Round 2 of the Albanese Government’s On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP).
The Government is boosting funding to $18 million and expanding eligibility for Round 2 of the popular program so that more Australian farmers can embrace ag-tech and on-farm connectivity solutions.
The OFCP provides rebates of up to 50 per cent for eligible equipment - worth up to $30,000 - to extend data coverage and allow for greater connection and reliability of machinery and sensor technology.
This technology assists farmers to optimise soil quality and nutrient levels, monitor livestock, automate tank systems, enhance on-farm safety and safeguard farming equipment, livestock and fuel supplies.
The Albanese Government allocated $15 million worth of grants through OFCP Round 1, with more than 1,500 primary production businesses accessing a wide range of equipment.
The EOI process will help to identify additional suppliers wanting to take part. Submissions close 11:59pm (AEST) Sunday 29 September 2024 via:: infrastructure.gov.au
Round 2 of the OFCP will open in the coming months with more farmers, equipment and suppliers able to participate thanks to expanded guidelines and increased funding.
Farmers and suppliers wanting further information can contact the Regional Tech Hub on 1300 081 029 or visit Regional Tech Hub - Get Connected, Stay Connected.
The OFCP is part of the Albanese Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, delivering improved mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience.