Applications are now open for two competitive grant rounds worth $11.2 million to help improve drought resilience throughout Australia, Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien said today.

Mr O’Brien said the programs funded through the Australian Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund would provide vital support for producers and communities in Wide Bay to prepare for future drought events.

“The Future Drought Fund provides secure, continuous funding for drought resilience initiatives, and assists farms and communities as they work through the significant economic, social and environmental impacts of drought,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Community networks play a critical role in supporting people Wide Bay to prepare for, and live through, times of drought such as we have seen in the past few years, and the $3.75 million Networks to Build Drought Resilience program is about strengthening the those networks and facilities that can help people when the next drought inevitably comes.

“Our $7.45 million Drought Resilience Leaders program will support young and emerging leaders to develop, share and apply their skills and knowledge within their local community, and help to build a national drought resilience leadership capability.”

The two related programs provide support to regional and rural communities as part of the broader objectives set out under the Future Drought Fund and the Drought Resilience Funding Plan, and will be managed by external providers who have specialist expertise to deliver the program activities tailored to regional needs.

“These competitive grant rounds will select providers to deliver these programs, connecting communities within Wide Bay and building stronger networks to support wellbeing and resilience,” Mr O’Brien said.

Applications are open to single organisations and consortiums. Applications close 25 September 2020, and successful providers are expected to be announced later this year. To apply visit the Grants Connect website: www.grants.gov.au

The programs form part of the first, foundational, year of the Future Drought Fund, and will be built on by subsequent investments from the $5 billion Fund.

For more information about Future Drought Fund programs visit www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought/future-drought-fund

WELCOME TO WIDE BAY

In the spirit of Australia, I acknowledge all citizens who contribute to making our nation the greatest on earth.

I acknowledge our defence force personnel, past, present, and emerging, for their service to our nation, and particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Australia.

I also acknowledge the Australian taxpayers who, through their hard work, pay for the infrastructure, health, education, and emergency services that keep our proud nation healthy, safe, and prosperous.