Grants up to $8 million to support projects aimed at investigating and testing innovative and transformative farming practices, with a focus on long-term drought resilience.
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What is the Future Drought Fund – Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program?
The program is designed to support Australian farmers and regional communities by building resilience against drought and climate variability. This program funds projects aimed at investigating and testing innovative and transformative farming practices, with a focus on long-term drought resilience.
Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program level of support
The Australian Government has allocated up to $40.3 million over 6 years for this round.
- Minimum funding: $3 million
- Maximum funding: $8 million
Co-contribution:
Co-investment is encouraged as part of the assessment process to ensure value for money. While there is no specific co-contribution requirement, projects that include financial or in-kind contributions from applicants or third parties will be prioritised, as this strengthens program outcomes.
Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program important dates
- Closing date: 19 November 2024, 9:00 pm AEDT
- Notification of outcomes: March 2025
- Project start date: From 30 May 2025
- Project completion: By 30 June 2030
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program objectives
The main objective of this program is to increase the drought and climate resilience of Australian farming practices. The program funds long-term trials that scientifically validate new practices and technologies in agriculture, enabling farmers to adopt innovations that build resilience to drought and climate variability.
Specific objectives include:
- Increasing farmers’ capacity to prepare for and respond to drought and climate impacts.
- Strengthening networks for knowledge sharing on drought resilience practices.
- Promoting adoption of successful farming innovations through extension activities.
Projects eligible for Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program support
Projects eligible for funding must:
- Focus on innovative farming practices and technologies to improve drought resilience.
- Include at least one trial site with scientifically validated practices.
- Engage farmers or farmer-led research organisations as part of a consortium.
- Be part of the agricultural industries identified, including cereal crops, horticulture, and livestock.
The grant cannot be used for the following purposes:
- Salaries for employees not directly related to the project.
- Overseas travel unless explicitly approved.
- Purchase of land or existing infrastructure.
- Business case development or feasibility studies.
- Activities funded by other Commonwealth, state, or local government programs.
See the guidelines for full details of projects eligible for LTDRFP support.
Other Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for LTDRFP support
Eligible entities include:
- Companies
- Incorporated associations
- Local governments
- Indigenous corporations
- Cooperative Commonwealth or state entities
Consortiums are required, with a lead organisation responsible for submitting the application. The lead must be one of the eligible entity types.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
LTDRFP assessment criteria
Applications will be assessed based on four main criteria:
1. Project Description (15%)
- Applicants should provide a synopsis of the project, including its innovative approach to farming practices that promote drought resilience.
2. Project Design (40%)
- The trial’s scientific methodology, validation, and design are crucial for achieving effective outcomes. Applicants should detail the key practices and technologies to be tested and the data management strategy.
3. Project Management (30%)
- Applicants must demonstrate the capability of the consortium, providing examples of previous relevant experience in managing large-scale projects. Contributions from each consortium member should be outlined.
4. Value for Money (15%)
- This criterion considers the budget and whether the project represents efficient use of public funds. Co-contributions will be considered positively under this criterion.
See the guidelines for full details of the assessment criteria.
How do I get the LTDRFP?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Prospective applicants should prepare by forming a consortium of partners, engaging in co-design processes, and ensuring active farmer involvement in their projects.
Information to prepare for the LTDRFP application
Applicants should ensure they have the following documents ready:
- A completed project budget.
- Signed letters of support from all consortium members.
- A trust deed if applying as a trustee on behalf of a trust.
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the LTDRFP
Applications must be submitted through the GrantConnect website.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Long-term Trials of Drought Resilient Farming Practices Program resources
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