Joint Release: Minister for Water Resources and Drought David Littleproud and Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson.
Liberal Senator for Victoria, Senator Henderson, is encouraging farmers to apply for water under the Federal Government’s Water for Fodder Program, when it opens next week.
“At $100 a megalitre (ML), this water is heavily discounted from the market price,” Senator Henderson said.
“Farmers can apply for the first 40 GL from the second week in December and water will start to flow before Christmas.
“This water must be used to produce fodder or pasture – fodder can’t be a by-product.
“Farmers will have to buy the water in 50 ML lots, with a maximum purchase of 100 ML.
“100 ML would grow around 120 tonnes of pasture providing affordable fodder to farmers in and around Victoria,” said Senator Henderson.
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.
“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,” said the Minister.
For eligibility and to apply, visit https://www.agriculture.gov.au/water/mdb/programs/basin-wide/water-for-fodder or email WaterforFodder@agriculture.gov.au
3 December 2019