Joint media release: Albanese Government providing more support for Aussie farmers to embrace ag-tech and connectivity solutions

Minister for Trade and Tourism, MP the Hon Michelle Rowland
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, MP the Hon Julie Collins

The Albanese Government is increasing help to Australian farmers and primary producers by launching Round Two of its popular On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP).

The OFCP was a first for any Australian Government and was delivered by Labor. It was a simple idea that translated into tangible support for farmers.

The results of Round One, which was delivered as part of the Government’s 2022 election commitments, have shown this investment has the potential for great productivity gains.

The Government is boosting its funding to $18 million to support eligible ag-tech and connectivity solutions. Today’s announcement will expand eligibility so that more primary producers can reap the benefits of our investment in their productivity by using digital technology.

The program 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.

These technologies are already assisting farmers to optimise soil quality and nutrient levels, monitor livestock, improve efficiency of water use and streamline farm logistics. The OFCP is also allowing farmers to invest in on-farm safety and safeguards for farming equipment, livestock and fuel supplies.

OFCP Round One closed in May 2024, with more than $13 million provided in rebates to suppliers. Equipment funded through Round One of the program included:

  • Soil moisture probes;
  • Antennas;
  • Liquid level monitors;
  • Livestock monitoring systems;
  • Weather monitors;
  • Boosters and repeaters;
  • Radio transmitters;
  • Cameras;
  • Water flow and pressure monitors.

The program is part of the Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, delivering improved mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in communities across Australia.

For more information on the program, visit: infrastructure.gov.au/ofcp

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“The Albanese Government is backing our farmers and primary producers who feed millions and generate billions for our economy.

“The OFCP is ensuring our farmers, wherever they live, can take advantage of the latest Ag-tech and connectivity solutions.

“We listened to stakeholder feedback from industry and after a successful first round we are expanding the eligibility enabling more farmers across more agricultural sectors to take part.

“This program demonstrates our commitment to one of Australia’s key industries and I’m glad to see its success building.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon Julie Collins MP:

“Australia’s farmers and primary producers are world-class innovators.

“But they need reliable and accessible communications to unlock their farm’s full potential with new agriculture technology.

“That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is supporting our vital agriculture sector to stay connected and keep innovating.”