Key Takeaways:
- An additional $20 million has been allocated to the On-Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP) under the Albanese Government.
- Total investment in the OFCP now stands at $53 million, enabling over $100 million in ag-tech purchases nationwide.
- Farmers can access rebates of up to 50% for eligible connectivity-enhancing equipment, capped at $30,000.
- Applications for OFCP Round 3 will open in 2025, with funding delivered in 2025-26.
- The program is part of the $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
What Is the On-Farm Connectivity Program?
The On-Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP) is an ag-tech grants initiative designed to enhance farm connectivity and modernize Australian agriculture. The program provides rebates of up to 50% for eligible equipment and technology purchases, with a maximum rebate of $30,000. These solutions empower farmers to:
- Monitor activity with real-time data.
- Optimize soil quality and nutrient levels.
- Track and manage livestock.
- Automate tank systems.
- Improve safety and protect farming equipment.
Since its inception, thousands of farmers have leveraged the program to increase productivity and embrace sustainable farming practices.
What Is New in OFCP Round 3?
Round 3 of the OFCP will bring an additional $20 million in funding, raising the Albanese Government’s total investment in the program to $53 million. This funding has supported over $100 million in ag-tech purchases, helping farmers adopt cutting-edge technologies.
Applications for Round 3 are scheduled to open in 2025, with funding to be delivered in the 2025-26 period. Ahead of the application period, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts will review the program guidelines to optimize its impact.
How Has the Program Evolved?
The OFCP has expanded significantly since its initial rollout:
- Round 1 Success: Prompted an increase in funding to meet demand.
- Round 2 Expansion: Boosted funding to $18 million in 2024 and broadened eligibility criteria, enabling more farmers to participate.
- Round 3 Improvements: Consultations with the agriculture industry and local communities, including the National Farmers’ Federation, will guide further enhancements to the program.
Why Is the OFCP Important for Farmers?
The OFCP addresses connectivity gaps that hinder technology adoption in agriculture, as identified by the 2021 Regional Telecommunications Review. Farmers rely on connectivity solutions to streamline operations, improve productivity, and ensure sustainability.
“Thousands of farmers have taken advantage of this innovative program to enhance on-farm connectivity, improve safety, and increase productivity on their farms,” stated the Albanese Government.
How Does This Fit Into the Government’s Broader Strategy?
The OFCP is a key component of the Albanese Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which aims to:
- Improve connectivity and communications resilience.
- Support the modernization of regional and rural industries.
- Foster economic growth and sustainability across Australia.
