Looking to invest in a water tank for your farm, property or rural community? Government grants, rebates and low-interest loan programs may help eligible applicants improve water security, prepare for drought and invest in water infrastructure.
Explore the available programs below and visit the official government websites to check eligibility and application requirements.
Water Tank Grants & Rebates
Queensland | Grant
Drought Preparedness Grants
Up to $50,000
Eligible Queensland primary producers can apply for a grant covering up to 25% of eligible drought preparedness project costs. Funding can support the purchase, upgrade and installation of permanent water infrastructure, including water tanks, pumps, pipes, troughs and other water storage systems.
Who can apply: Eligible Queensland primary producers with a suitable Farm Business Resilience Plan. Project approval is generally required before work begins. Applications remain open until funding is exhausted.
Water Corporation offers eligible regional property owners a rebate of up to $1,000 towards purchasing and plumbing in a new rainwater tank of at least 2,000 litres. Rebates of up to $500 may also be available for eligible existing tank connections or replacements.
Who can apply: Property owners connected to Water Corporation scheme water in selected South West and Great Southern towns. The tank must be connected to a toilet and/or washing machine by an appropriately licensed plumber. Available until program funds are exhausted.
Funding is available for eligible organisations to coordinate and deliver activities that strengthen drought resilience across regional Victoria. Regional water security initiatives may be considered where they align with approved regional drought resilience plans and program guidelines.
Who can apply: Eligible organisations involved in regional drought resilience initiatives. This is not a direct water tank purchase rebate for individual farmers or households. Expressions of Interest close 23 November 2026 at 5:00 pm.
The NSW Government provides assistance for emergency infrastructure and water supply measures where regional towns or villages face critical water shortages or serious water quality events. Eligible emergency projects may involve water supply infrastructure or temporary water delivery.
Who can apply: Eligible regional councils, local water utilities, water supply authorities and joint organisations. This is not a general grant for private water tanks. Applications are open until 30 June 2030.
The following programs provide repayable loans rather than grants or rebates. They may help eligible farmers finance water infrastructure and drought preparedness improvements.
New South Wales | Low-Interest Loan
Drought Ready and Resilient Fund Loan
Loans up to $500,000
Eligible NSW primary producers can access low-interest finance to prepare for, manage and recover from drought. Eligible projects can include on-farm water infrastructure such as water tanks, stock watering systems, pumps, dams and other water conservation improvements.
Who can apply: Eligible NSW primary production businesses undertaking approved drought resilience activities. Projects must meet program guidelines and align with a Farm Business Resilience Plan or equivalent. Applications remain open while funding is available.
The NSW Drought Relief Loan provides financial assistance to eligible primary producers affected by drought. Funding can support eligible on-farm infrastructure, animal welfare improvements and other approved drought management activities. Applicants should confirm that their proposed water tank project meets the guidelines.
Who can apply: Eligible NSW primary production businesses experiencing drought impacts. The scheme offers an upfront payment option of up to $25,000, subject to approval. Applications remain open until funding is exhausted.
