New Funding Round Opens To Strengthen Drought Resilience

Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Farmers and regional communities across Mackay and the Whitsundays could benefit from a refreshed national drought resilience program, with the Australian Government opening applications for the next phase of its Future Drought Fund Drought Resilience Hubs initiative.

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The program will establish seven Drought Resilience Hubs across Australia, designed to connect farmers with practical support, regional expertise, innovations and services that help build resilience before, during and after drought.

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The latest funding round follows an independent review of the program and includes a renewed focus on delivering practical, place-based solutions rather than duplicating existing research or policy work.

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Up to $86.7 million has been allocated nationally to support the hubs through to June 2032, providing long-term certainty for regional drought resilience initiatives.

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The hubs aim to increase awareness and adoption of drought-resilient farming practices, strengthen collaboration between industry, researchers and government, and identify local challenges and opportunities through region-specific planning.

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Eligible organisations, including companies, incorporated associations, cooperatives and Indigenous corporations, can apply to deliver hub services from 2027 to 2032.

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Applications will close on the 10^th of August with successful providers expected to be announced later this year. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.

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