The Future Drought Fund (FDF) was established to provide secure, continuous funding for investments that support Australian farmers and regional communities to prepare for, and become more resilient to, the impacts of future droughts. Under the FDF, funding and investment priorities are reviewed every 4 years. A new 4-year funding cycle will commence in 2024, with new programs from 1 July 2024.

In preparation for the next 4-year funding cycle, the Australian Government is seeking your feedback on a draft Drought Resilience Funding Plan (Funding Plan), and draft Future Drought Fund Investment Strategy 2024 to 2028 (Investment Strategy). These documents were informed by stakeholder feedback to date as well as the recent Productivity Commission’s Inquiry Report into the effectiveness of the FDF.

This meeting will be an opportunity to have your say on the Funding Plan and the Investment Strategy and share your ideas on how funding should be allocated and what the FDF should focus on over the next 4 years. Your feedback will shape the future direction of the FDF to ensure Australian farmers and communities can access the necessary information, skills, and networks to manage drought and climate risks.

WHERE: International Hotel Wagga Wagga, Lake Albert Road Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

WHEN: Thursday 30 November 2023 | 9.00 - 10.30 AM

Before the meeting, it is suggested that you:

• read the draft Funding Plan

• read the consultation draft Investment Strategy

Should the meeting date/time not suit, or if room capacity limits are reached, you may also submit your feedback via a short survey or upload a submission on the department’s website.

Links for FDF meetings at other locations can also be found on the department’s website.