GRANTS of $200,000 to $500,000 will be delivered for projects to help 35 regions across remote, rural and regional Australia prepare for future drought events.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Senator Murray Watt said the grants are part of a $12.1 million investment under the Federal Government’s Future Drought Fund to help regional communities adapt to the changing climate.

“We need to support regional communities to start preparing for the return of dry conditions—now,” Minister Watt said.

“The grants will help communities with greater drought risk build the skills and networks needed to get ahead of the drought cycle.

“They can be used in a range of ways, including events, training, capability building and small infrastructure projects, and we encourage community groups to apply.”

The Future Drought Fund’s Community Impact Program is being delivered as part of the new $29.6 million Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative.

Successful applicants will also receive leadership development support, so community organisations and local people can learn the adaptive skills to become drought resilience leaders.

The Future Drought Fund is partnering with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) and the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) to deliver the program, drawing on their expertise and networks to meet the needs of regional people and communities.

“The Albanese Government is committed to collaboration with every level of government, industry and communities when it comes to drought and strategies to help adapt to our variable climate,” Minister Watt said.

“The FRRR and ARLF will work with other existing Future Drought Fund delivery partners in each region to build off community drought resilience programs already underway.”

“I’m looking forward to seeing the impact of community organisations connecting with existing drought knowledge in their region, so they’re better prepared for the next drought.”

Source: Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.   Learn more and apply now visit: www.frrr.org.au/impact-program