Albanese Government encourages more ag-tech suppliers to take advantage of On Farm Connectivity Program

Expressions of Interest are now open for businesses and suppliers of ag-tech to take part in Round 2 of the Albanese Government’s On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP).
 
The Government is boosting funding to $18 million and expanding eligibility for Round 2 of the popular program so that more Australian farmers can embrace ag-tech and on-farm connectivity solutions.
 
The OFCP provides rebates of up to 50 per cent for eligible equipment - worth up to $30,000 - to extend data coverage and allow for greater connection and reliability of machinery and sensor technology.
 
This technology assists farmers to optimise soil quality and nutrient levels, monitor livestock, automate tank systems, enhance on-farm safety and safeguard farming equipment, livestock and fuel supplies.

The Albanese Government allocated $15 million worth of grants through OFCP Round 1, with more than 1,500 primary production businesses accessing a wide range of equipment.

The EOI process will help to identify additional suppliers wanting to take part. Submissions close 11:59pm (AEST) Sunday 29 September 2024 via:  infrastructure.gov.au/ofcp
 
Round 2 of the OFCP will open in the coming months with more farmers, equipment and suppliers able to participate thanks to expanded guidelines and increased funding.
 
Farmers and suppliers wanting further information can contact the Regional Tech Hub on 1300 081 029 or visit: www.regionaltechhub.org.au
 
The OFCP is part of the Albanese Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, delivering improved mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience.
 
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
 
“The Albanese Government is backing Australian farmers and suppliers of ag-tech and connectivity equipment through the On Farm Connectivity Program.
 
“This important program is helping farmers around the country invest in the future through smarter, more sustainable ag-tech and connectivity solutions that power productivity and streamline farm logistics.
 
 “I strongly encourage suppliers wanting to take advantage of Round 2 of the program to submit an EOI by the end of September.”
 
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP:

“Australia’s farmers and primary producers feed millions of Australians, generate billions of dollars for our economy. They are also world-class innovators.
 
“The On Farm Connectivity Program is an investment in the future of Australian agriculture.”
 
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:
 
“Improving connectivity in our regions is a topic that regularly arises often when I meet people living and working in regional Australia.
 
“We saw strong demand through Round 1 of the program, with more than $2.5 million worth of rebates delivered to Queensland farmers alone. This $18 million funding boost to expand eligibility will give more farmers the opportunity to improve how they operate and do business.
 
“Farms are essentially small businesses, and we want to increase their capacity by making it easier to utilise the technology that will help them meet growing demand.”
 
Quotes attributable to General Manager, Regional Tech Hub, Jennifer Medway:
 
“We are fielding enquiries from prospective suppliers wanting to be part of Round 2 of the program, which has generated a real buzz in the farming community.

“For many farmers, they simply wouldn’t progress the next step in addressing their connectivity gaps or take advantage of connectivity to drive new tech adoption if it wasn’t for this program.

“The Regional Tech Hub is working with farmers and suppliers by offering free and independent advice to help connect producers with the right connectivity solutions and suppliers.

“We are developing a range of new resources, including webinars and opportunities to speak one-to-one with our team to help point farmers in the right direction and ensure they get the most out of the program.”