Gnangara Water Efficiency Grants Program

Purpose and Program Overview

The Gnangara Horticulture Water Use Efficiency Grants Program is a Western Australian government initiative. It provides grants and vouchers to commercial horticulture and viticulture businesses. The program’s intent is to help growers improve water efficiency. This is in response to mandatory groundwater abstraction reductions from 2028 under the Gnangara Groundwater Allocation Plan.

The program’s objective is to help growers adapt to a 10% reduction in groundwater abstraction. This supports sustainability in the horticulture sector and protects the state’s water resources. It also ensures the continued supply of fresh food.

The fund’s broader role is to support the agricultural sector in adapting to climate change. It helps businesses become more resilient. The grants and vouchers support both infrastructure upgrades and professional advice.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range: A grant of up to $100,000 for infrastructure and soil projects. A voucher of up to $5,000 for expert advice.
• Application open and close dates: Applications are open until 30 June 2026 or until funds are fully committed.
• Eligible industries or business types: Commercial horticulture and viticulture businesses.
• Required co-contributions: Yes, grower co-contributions are required. The grant will not cover 100% of the project cost.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Western Australia, specifically in the designated Gnangara groundwater allocation area.

Priority Sectors

The grant is specifically for the horticulture and viticulture sectors.

Funding Scope

The program has two funding streams:

• Grants for infrastructure and soil amelioration: Up to $100,000 is available for projects.
• Vouchers for expert advice: Up to $5,000 is available.

Eligible projects include infrastructure upgrades and soil amendments. The funding is a one-off payment for each project.

Grant Amount in Total

The total grant amount offered is approximately $1.19 million.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: The business must be a sole trader, partnership, trust, or private company.
• Registered business location: The business must operate within the designated Gnangara groundwater allocation area.
• Insurance or compliance obligations: The business must be subject to the 10% groundwater abstraction reduction from 2028.
• ABN/GST status: The business must hold an ABN and be registered for GST.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

Gnangara Horticulture Water Use Efficiency Grants Program supports activities that improve water efficiency. Eligible expenses include:

• Upgrading irrigation systems (e.g., from sprinklers to drip irrigation).
• Purchasing soil moisture monitoring equipment.
• Installing covered cropping options (e.g., greenhouses, shade houses).
• Implementing soil amendments (e.g., adding clay, compost, biochar).
• Paying certified irrigation specialists to audit properties and design efficient systems.

Assessment Process

The grant is entitlement-based and assessed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are assessed to ensure the applicant meets all eligibility requirements. Funding is provided as long as it is available.

Recent Program Updates

The application deadline was extended to 30 June 2026. The maximum grant amount has increased to $100,000. Grower co-contribution requirements have been reduced.

Application Tips

• The application period is open, but funds are limited.
• Prepare a clear project plan before applying.
• For the grant, a professional audit from the voucher program can strengthen your application.
• Ensure all required documents are ready for upload.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant government websites for application templates and further guidance.