The Queensland Government has opened applications for a rebate programme designed to reduce water costs for farming operations across the state.
The new scheme offers a 15 per cent discount on water costs for irrigators, and the State Government said it is investing almost $51 million over two years to provide certainty for primary industries.
The rebate targets owner-operated irrigation businesses earning primary production income and will be administered by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA). The programme aims to keep water affordable by subsidising irrigation prices and is designed to help producers cut expenses while keeping food affordable for Queensland families.
Queens;and Water Minister, Ann Leahy, said the new rebate would help make water more affordable for irrigators.
“We know irrigators are the backbone of regional Queensland, and the State Government is standing with them,” Ms Leahy said.
“We’re listening to industry and making sure future pricing is sustainable and sensible. This is about fairness, accountability, and delivering on our promise to stand with regional Queensland.”
Queensland Regional and Rural Development Minister, Dale Last, said the scheme would alleviate rising input costs faced by farming families.
“The Queensland Government is delivering simple, targeted, and practical relief so that farming families can keep investing in their operations with confidence,” Mr Last said.
“QRIDA has a strong track record in getting the right support to the right people and will deliver this rebate efficiently so irrigators can continue growing Queensland’s economy in our regions.
“This is a win for the regions, a win for Queensland farming families, and delivers direct cost-of-living relief where it counts.”
Applications are now open and close on 31 December 2027. Irrigators can apply online via QRIDA’s portal.
