About the Program
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to building drought resilience — it affects regional landscapes, communities and economies in different ways. That is why the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund works with state and territory governments to support regions to develop their own drought resilience plans. This is the background to everything on this platform.
What the plans do
Involving local governments, regional organisations, the agricultural sector and local Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs.
Actions to prepare for future droughts based on evidence, including a Drought Vulnerability Assessment for each region.
Connecting with regional strategies, NRM plans, community action plans and the work already underway.
Drawing out regional needs and priorities so funding flows to what the region actually needs.
What the program provides
- Independent expert feedback from CSIRO that applies the science of resilience, adaptation and transformation.
- The opportunity to learn from each other — 68 regions across Australia are participating in the program.
- Small grants to kickstart actions identified in the plans.
What the region gains
- Economic, environmental and social resilience to future droughts.
- A stronger position to adapt to climate change.
- Stronger connections and networks within and between regions.
- Best-practice data and information to make better decisions.
$67 million to move from planning to doing
In May 2024, the Australian Government committed $67 million over four years from July 2025 for the next phase of the program, delivered in partnership with states and territories. In the next phase:
Additional funding for eligible activities in approved plans.
Regions supported to govern and improve their plans as living documents.
Agricultural regions without plans can develop one.
Delivery in Western Australia
In WA the program is delivered in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), with regional plans led by the state's development commissions. The Mid West's plans are led by the Mid West Development Commission.
Funding and enquiries
The Regional Drought Resilience Planning Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund and DPIRD. Program funding information is published as required under Section 27A of the Future Drought Fund Act 2019.
For program enquiries contact the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on 1800 900 090 or droughtresilience@aff.gov.au.
Regional Drought Resilience Plans are developed by each region. While the Australian Government agrees to each plan's development and publication, the content of plans is not endorsed by the Australian Government. This demonstration platform shows how plan implementation could be tracked.