Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme reopens

Primary producers in the Dubbo electorate can apply for assistance to drought-proof their properties, with the much-anticipated second round of the Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate (EWIR) Scheme now open.

Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said EWIR enabled eligible primary producers to access a 25 per cent rebate, up to $25,000, on new purchases and installation costs of new water infrastructure such as bores, dams and pipes.

“This scheme was immensely popular the first time around and I can’t wait to see local farmers make the most of it to help drought-proof their properties,” Mr Saunders said.

“The NSW Government and the Commonwealth have each put $15 million on the table, giving primary producers a $30 million pool to apply for.

“That means more bores, dams and pipes on farms across NSW and our local area so that landholders are better prepared for drought events.”

Mr Saunders urged farmers to check their eligibility, and apply through the Rural Assistance Authority.

“Let’s be honest – it’s only a matter of time before the next drought hits,” Mr Saunders said.

“There’s nothing more important than supporting our primary producers to invest in infrastructure that will make them more resilient when that time comes.

“Farmers in western NSW know that the best drought preparation is done in the good times and while they enjoy some of the best conditions in recent memory, now is the time to prepare.”

The EWIR scheme is jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments, administered by the Rural Assistance Authority. The NSW Government has committed more than $4 billion in drought and water infrastructure support.

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