Farmers in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone will soon be able to apply for grants to purchase agricultural technology, under the NSW Government’s new $1.4 million Smart Farming Program.
As part of the program, local primary producers can apply for grants to cover 70% of the cost of eligible technologies that improve productivity, efficiency, safety, and business resilience, up to a maximum value of $35,000.
The initiative supports a wide range of agtech solutions, such as soil and water sensors, drones, livestock and crop monitoring tools, electric fencing monitoring, site security platforms and fuel tank sensors.
“These grants, available thanks to the Renewable Energy Zone, will help farmers invest in practical technologies that improve productivity, safety and profitability,” said Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe.
“Through initiatives like this, we’re ensuring communities hosting critical renewable energy infrastructure see tangible benefits now, while building a stronger future for regional NSW.”
The grants can also fund the connectivity devices that underpin modern farming systems, enabling producers to access real-time data, automate operations and manage assets remotely.
Applicants will be required to have completed an Agtech Fundamentals workshop, delivered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Farms of the Future Program, which helps producers assess technology options, develop farm monitoring plans and make informed investment decisions. The program is available face-to-face and online.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said the Government was backing farmers to embrace innovation and technology that can improve farm performance and support the long-term success of the state’s agricultural industries.
“More than 1,500 farmers across NSW have already taken part in Farms of the Future Agtech Fundamentals training,” she said.
“Our recently launched online learning hub, the Agtech Academy, will make it even easier for producers to build their understanding of agtech and assess opportunities for their own operations.”
Grant applications will open in the coming months. The initiative forms part of the NSW Government’s $128 million investment in community benefits for the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.
Details of upcoming Agtech Fundamentals workshops in the Central-West Orana region, including dates and locations, will be published online via Agtech Fundamentals Workshops.
