REBATE SCHEME KICKS OFF EARLY FOR EMERGENCY WATER INFRASTRUCTURE

The NSW Government has today started to process previously successful rebate applications as part of the Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebates (EWIR) Round 1 ahead of Round 2 going live on 1 July 2021. 

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the NSW Government’s priority is to process 500 applications from eligible primary producers who missed out last time, before Round 2 starts at the end of this month. 

“The EWIR scheme enables eligible primary producers to access a 25 per cent rebate, up to $25,000, on new purchases and installation costs of new water infrastructure such as bores, dams and pipes,” Mr Barilaro said. 

“We are pleased to open Round 2 at the end of the month, but the priority now is for us to get money in the pockets of the farmers who have been patiently waiting since last year when Round 1 of the scheme was exhausted. 

“There’s nothing more important than supporting our primary producers to invest in infrastructure that will make them more resilient next time the inevitable drought hits.” 

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall welcomed the early kick-off for payments with expressions of interest for Round 2 already live on the Rural Assistance Authority’s (RAA) website. 

“Payments are going out the door today, so if you applied for Round 1 and have been successful, there is nothing you need to do, you should see the funds in your account within days,” Mr Marshall said. 

“Round 2 opens on 1 July, so I would encourage primary producers to get in early and take advantage of this rebate. The state’s farmers know that the best drought preparation is done in the good times and while our farmers are enjoying some of the best conditions in recent memory, now is the time to prepare. 

“From crippling drought, bushfires and the impact from COVID-19, the NSW Government will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the state’s farmers.” 

The Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate (EWIR) scheme is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, administered by the Rural Assistance Authority. The NSW Government has committed more than $4 billion in drought and water infrastructure support.