NSW Introduces $1.4M Smart Farming Initiative for First Renewable Energy Zone

Key Takeaways

Farmers in Central-West Orana can apply for grants under the NSW Government’s $1.4 million Smart Farming Program.
The grants cover up to 70% of eligible agricultural technology costs, with a maximum value of $35,000.
Applicants must complete an Agtech Fundamentals workshop to be eligible for funding.

Grants for Agricultural Technology

Farmers within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone will soon have the opportunity to apply for grants through the NSW Government’s newly established $1.4 million Smart Farming Program. This initiative is designed to support local primary producers by covering up to 70% of the costs associated with eligible agtech solutions, capped at $35,000.

The program aims to enhance agricultural productivity, efficiency, safety, and business resilience. Eligible technologies include soil and water sensors, drones, livestock and crop monitoring tools, electric fencing monitoring, site security platforms, and fuel tank sensors. Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe, emphasized that these grants will enable farmers to adopt practical technologies that can significantly boost their productivity and profitability.

Additionally, the grants will support connectivity devices essential for modern farming operations. These technologies allow producers to access real-time data, automate processes, and manage assets remotely, further contributing to improved operational efficiency.

To qualify for the grants, applicants must first complete an Agtech Fundamentals workshop, offered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Farms of the Future Program. This workshop aims to assist farmers in evaluating technology options and crafting farm monitoring plans. Available in both face-to-face and online formats, the training has already attracted over 1,500 farmers across NSW.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, noted that the government is committed to promoting innovation and technological advancement within the agricultural sector. The recently launched Agtech Academy online learning hub will facilitate producers’ understanding of agtech and provide further opportunities for them to assess and implement new technologies.

Grant applications are expected to open in the coming months as part of the NSW Government’s broader $128 million investment to enhance community benefits in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone. Details on upcoming Agtech Fundamentals workshops, including dates and locations, will soon be accessible online.

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