Drought Resilience funding now available

FUNDING applications are now open for the $4.5 million first round of the Networks to Build Drought Resilience program, which aims to help communities prepare for and live through drought.

The program is part of the Federal Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund, with program partner the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) also providing $1.125 million.

FRRR Chief Executive Officer Natalie Egleton said a key element of the program will be to build stronger local networks, which are the foundation of resilient communities.

“Through this program we’re helping to invest in the future of agriculture-dependent regions by enabling them to prepare now for periods of ongoing dryness,” Ms Egleton said.

“A key element of this program will be to build stronger networks, and to encourage greater sharing of learnings and more collaboration within and across networks,” she said.

Organisations are encouraged to apply directly to FRRR, which will deliver the program in two rounds. The second round of funding will open later this year.

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the FRRR networks and experience will help ensure the investment is well targeted and effective.

“Strong rural and regional networks are critical for the drought resilience of Australian agriculture-dependent communities,” Minister Littleproud said.