$43.2 million investment to boost drought resilience across regional NSW

As drought continues to impact regional communities across NSW, the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments will jointly invest $43.2 million to support farmers to strengthen their drought resilience and climate adaptation.

Delivered through Phase 2 of the Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP), the funding will support farmers to access subsidised learning and development opportunities that will help them to manage risk, build long-term operational resilience, and continue to remain productive.

From personalised coaching, workshops, digital learning, and peer-to-peer case studies, the FBRP equips farmers with practical support to ensure they are better prepared before, during and after these challenging periods.

Since its launch, the FBRP has supported the development of more than 2,500 new farm business plans, engaged nearly 28,000 participants across more than 2,000 events and helped more than 1,600 NSW businesses improve their operations through targeted workshops and events.

Improved drought preparedness is expected to reduce economic losses in the agriculture sector and deliver broader benefits to rural communities, including increased employment and supply chain stability.

The FBRP program is jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the NSW Government.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said that farmers are the backbone of the New South Wales economy, and the state cannot meet its full potential if our regional communities are not able to thrive.

“Over the past five years farmers have shown monumental resilience in the face of drought, floods, bushfires and even for some a cyclone,” he said.

“With drought conditions returning and continuing across the state, we remain committed to supporting them with the necessary tools and assistance to sustain this vital industry.

“Supporting our farmers isn't just about today—it's about securing the future of agriculture in NSW for generations to come."

NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said that drought and extreme climate events are becoming more frequent, intense and prolonged.

“This investment will help regional communities and farming businesses better prepare for and respond to these challenges, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic stability," she said.

For more information on the Farm Business Resilience Program, please visit – www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au/programs/fbrp