The Australian Government’s OnFarm Connectivity Program (OFCP) has been initiated with $30 million available over two years to support primary producers in agriculture, forestry and fisheries adopt connected machinery and sensor technology.

Primary producers in agriculture, forestry and fisheries can access a 50% rebate of the cost of eligible equipment, including installation and training, with grants of between $3,000 and $30,000 (excluding GST). The OFCP covers digital technologies such as water flow and pressure monitors, monitoring systems and pump controllers as well as associated connectivity equipment. Applications for Round 1 are open now and rebates will be awarded to eligible applicants on a first come, first served basis in order of application receipt. $15 million is available to 30 June 2024, or until funding is exhausted.

Check out this webinar to learn how you can access rebates to boost connectivity and digital tech within your business. In this practical 1-hour webinar, you’ll discover:

• How to apply for the rebate funding of 50% of connectivity equipment and installation costs
• Eligibility criteria for the program
• Real-world examples of equipment covered by the rebate
• Guidance from experts on choosing the right tech for your operation

Be sure to check out the Regional Tech Hub which offers independent advice and support and helps regional Australians negotiate often confusing connectivity issues. This is a free service funded through the Australian Government’s Stronger Regional Digital Connectivity funding package and developed by the National Farmers’ Federation, working in collaboration with the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network.

You can call the Regional Tech Hub on 1300 081 029 or book an appointment through their website to discuss your queries.

This article appears as part of the 8 December 2023 issue of Guacamole.