Businesses that supply connected machinery and connectivity equipment to primary producers are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to participate in Round 2 of the Australian Government's On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP).
The OFCP will enable primary producers in agriculture, forestry and fisheries to extend connectivity further onto their properties and take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology to make the sector more efficient.
The EOI process will identify suppliers of connectivity equipment and related technology to be added to a list of approved suppliers that can supply eligible equipment under the program. Primary producers then pay a subsidised price for equipment purchased for use in their fields and the approved supplier claims back the subsidy, up to $30,000 (GST exclusive), on the equipment.
There is $18 million available in rebates under Round 2 of the program.
Rebates will be available for a wide range of technology including external antennas, repeaters, boosters, sensors, automated tank systems and pump controllers, animal movement tags and relevant installation and training costs.
The Program will provide a significant boost to eligible primary producers who will have the capacity to extend connectivity in their fields, increasing productivity and improving farmers' safety. Improved connectivity will also capitalise on the sector's potential for growth.
The OFCP is part of the Government's $656 million Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
The EOI application form is available from the Department's website at On Farm Connectivity Program. The EOI will close at AEST 11:59pm on Sunday 29 September 2024.
