The On Farm Connectivity Program (the program) will run over 2 years from 2023-24 to 2024-25. This program forms part of the Better Connectivity for Rural and Regional Australia Plan (Better Connectivity Plan) and assists primary producers to take advantage of digital agribusiness solutions to boost productivity and improve safety.

The objectives of the program are:

• extend digital connectivity and take advantage of advanced farming technology

• enhance a primary producers’ capacity to implement digital agribusiness solutions through improved connectivity

• capitalise on the agricultural sector’s potential for increased productivity and growth

• support access to new communications equipment by offsetting some of the cost.

The intended outcomes of the program are:

• increased investment in equipment to support operations of the agricultural sector

• increased efficiency, competitiveness, productivity and profitability of the agricultural sector

• improved safety on farm

• increased use of advanced farming technology

• improved knowledge of advanced farming technology and digital literacy.

The Australian Government has announced a total of $30 million for the On Farm Connectivity Rebate Program. For Round 1 of the grant (rebate) opportunity, $15 million is available in 2023-24, or until funding is exhausted, whichever occurs first.

The grant (rebate) amount will be up to 50 per cent of the cost of eligible equipment item/s listed at Appendix B of the grant opportunity guidelines.

• The minimum grant (rebate) amount is $3,000.

• The maximum grant (rebate) amount is $30,000.