The On Farm Connectivity Program Round 2 is an initiative by the Australian Government aimed at enhancing digital connectivity for primary producers. This program offers rebates to eligible farmers, enabling them to adopt advanced farming technologies that can boost productivity and improve safety on their farms.
Overview of the Program
In the 2024-25 financial year, the Australian Government allocated $18 million for the second round of the On Farm Connectivity Program. This funding provides rebates covering up to 50% of the cost of eligible digital farming equipment, with rebates ranging from a minimum of $1,000 to a maximum of $30,000 (excluding GST). The program is part of the broader Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, aiming to extend digital connectivity and facilitate the adoption of advanced farming technologies.
Objectives of the Program
The primary goals of the On Farm Connectivity Program Round 2 are to:
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Enhance Digital Connectivity: Enable primary producers to access and utilize advanced farming technologies through improved connectivity.
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Boost Productivity: Support the agricultural sector’s potential for increased productivity and growth by facilitating the adoption of digital agribusiness solutions.
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Improve Safety: Enhance on-farm safety through the implementation of connected technologies that allow for better monitoring and management.
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Support Equipment Access: Offset some of the costs associated with acquiring new communications equipment, making advanced technologies more accessible to farmers.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the rebate, primary producers must meet the following criteria:
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Active Engagement: Operate an eligible primary production activity as defined by the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) codes under Division A, covering Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing.
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Business Structure: Possess an active Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST).
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Revenue Cap: Have an annual turnover of no more than $4 million.
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Declaration: Agree to participate in potential case studies about their connectivity solutions up to two years after the program concludes.
It’s important to note that primary producers cannot apply directly for the rebate. Instead, applications must be submitted through Approved Suppliers who have been authorized to participate in the program.
Approved Suppliers
Approved Suppliers are vendors authorized to provide eligible equipment under the program. They play a crucial role in the application process, as primary producers must purchase their equipment through these suppliers to qualify for the rebate. A comprehensive list of Approved Suppliers is available through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts.
Eligible Equipment
The program covers a range of digital farming technologies designed to enhance on-farm connectivity and operations. Eligible equipment categories include:
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Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN): Technologies that enable long-range communications between devices with minimal power consumption.
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Connectivity Equipment: Devices that establish or improve internet and network connections on the farm.
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Environmental Monitoring Tools: Instruments that monitor soil moisture, weather conditions, and other environmental factors critical to farming operations.
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Farm Management Systems: Software and hardware solutions that assist in planning, monitoring, and analyzing farm activities.
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Remote Automation and Control Devices: Equipment that allows for the remote operation and control of farm machinery and infrastructure.
A detailed list of eligible equipment is provided in the program’s guidelines.
Application Process
The application process involves several steps:
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Eligibility Assessment: The primary producer consults with an Approved Supplier to determine eligibility and identify suitable equipment.
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Quotation: The Approved Supplier provides a quote for the eligible equipment.
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Application Submission: The Approved Supplier submits the application on behalf of the primary producer, including necessary documentation and declarations.
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Assessment: The application is reviewed to ensure all criteria are met.
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Approval and Rebate: Upon approval, the rebate is processed, covering up to 50% of the equipment cost.
It’s essential for primary producers to work closely with Approved Suppliers throughout this process to ensure compliance with program requirements.
Program Status
As of November 2024, Round 2 of the On Farm Connectivity Program has closed due to the exhaustion of allocated funds. The program experienced significant interest, leading to the rapid allocation of the $18 million funding. While new applications are no longer being accepted, ongoing projects approved under this round will continue to receive support as per the program’s guidelines.
Impact on the Agricultural Sector
The On Farm Connectivity Program has had a notable impact on the agricultural sector by:
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Encouraging Investment: Facilitating increased investment in digital technologies that support modern farming operations.
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Enhancing Efficiency: Improving the efficiency, competitiveness, and profitability of farms through the adoption of advanced technologies.
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Promoting Safety: Contributing to improved safety on farms by enabling better monitoring and management practices.
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Advancing Technology Use: Increasing the use of advanced farming technologies and enhancing digital literacy among primary producers.
Future Prospects
Given the success and high demand for the On Farm Connectivity Program, there is potential for future rounds or similar initiatives aimed at further enhancing digital connectivity in the agricultural sector. Primary producers are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming opportunities and continue exploring ways to integrate advanced technologies into their operations.
The On Farm Connectivity Program Round 2 has played a pivotal role in supporting Australian primary producers to adopt digital technologies, thereby enhancing productivity and safety on farms. Although the current round has concluded, the program’s impact underscores the importance of continued investment in digital connectivity within the agricultural sector.