agri tourism grants nsw

Agritourism

Resources and support for agritourism businesses to leverage opportunities within the Visitor Economy.

Agritourism is a fast-growing sector, that provides direct and indirect benefits to regional economies. Being driven by consumer demand as visitors seek to better understand where their food comes from and where it is produced, agritourism plays an important role in providing the direct link between the primary producer and the end consumer.

For these regional businesses, the development of agritourism products and experiences provides primary producers with opportunities to supplement their income, diversify their business, and have valuable direct contact with end customers, so they can better understand consumer preferences and demands.

For destinations, agritourism provides an alternative means of showcasing the region and the potential to attract new visitor markets.

Agritourism in Central West NSW

The Central West NSW region, which includes three of NSW’s wine regions, has a reputation for high-quality culinary and drink offerings. Destination Central West (DNCW), through the  Central West Destination Management Plan (DMP), has identified agritourism as a key priority to grow the local visitor economy, by providing opportunities to develop new and enhanced experience offerings, increase access to local produce and elevate the region's reputation.

DNCW has engaged the services of industry development experts Sparrowly Group and together we are working with farmers from across the region to help them understand and leverage recent changes made by the NSW Government, designed to support the development and expansion of agritourism experiences and offerings. Our collaboration will include research and consultation with stakeholders to better understand the challenges, perceptions and opportunities that agritourism presents for the Central West region.

As part of the research effort, agritourism businesses, primary producers and farmers looking to diversify into the agritourism space or grow their current offering were invited to attend a free, hands-on learning and networking opportunity at Rowlee Wines in Orange, designed to assist with navigating the agritourism journey and to help maximise business opportunities. 

Workshop participants were provided with information on:

• starting an agritourism business,
• incorporating new experiences into their business,
• expanding existing offerings,
• overcoming challenges and barriers,
• examples of successful agritourism businesses,
• direction and guidance on transforming ideas and plans into action.

The below video provides an overview of the workshop objectives and outcomes and feedback from attendees.

DNCW and the Sparrowly Group, will continue to work with local farmers to grow agritourism across the Central West region. Developing a robust cluster of premium agritourism businesses will complement existing tourism businesses and create a compelling visitor proposition, which will drive visitation, encourage dispersal across the region, and promote increased length of stay.

Research f indings will be used to develop a Central West Agritourism Blueprint and Action Plan that explains what agritourism could look like in the region and develop an associated Action Plan to guide the program to support product development. 

Read the DNCW Agritourism Project Brief for more information.

NSW Government changes to support agritourism development

In March 2021, the NSW Government released an Explanation of the Intended Effect (EIE) for  Agritourism and Small-scale Agriculture Development , the document outlined proposed amendments to support farm businesses and regional economies.

The proposed amendments were designed to support the development of agritourism experiences and offerings through a series of amended and new definitions. Additional changes have been made in both 2022 and 2023, to make it easier for farmers to understand how they can use their land for new income streams, as outlined on the NSW Government website and summarised below:

2022 changes

New and amended terms:

• Farm gate premises – where visitors interact with produce from the farm, such as through fruit picking, sales, tastings, workshops and cafés.
• Farm experience premises – where visitors can experience life on a farm, including tours, horse riding, weddings, functions and retreats.
• Farm stay accommodation – including camping, caravanning and glamping.

Other changes:

• New planning pathways allow agritourism activities to happen with either fast-track ( complying development ) or no planning approval ( exempt development ) with development standards that minimise impacts on neighbours, rural roads and the community. If an activity doesn’t meet the standards for exempt or complying development, speak to your local council about lodging a development application.
• Landowners can rebuild farm buildings destroyed by natural disasters without planning approval to help future-proof their farms.
• The distance between homes and poultry and pig farms has been increased to protect the industry from biosecurity threats.

2023 changes

• An amending SEPP made on 18 August 2023 has expanded the use of agritourism across NSW.  The new changes mean agritourism is now permitted with consent in all RU1 Primary Production, RU2 Rural Landscape and RU4 Primary Production Small Lots zones in local environmental plans and in other zones councils have nominated.
• The NSW Government worked with councils to ensure the nominated zones reflect the best locations for agritourism in each LGA. 
• The 100 visitors limit to farm gate premises under exempt and complying development no longer applies to pick-your-own produce on farms. Farmers now have greater flexibility to invite more visitors to pick and buy their produce.

The amending SEPP is available on the  NSW legislation website .

For more information about the proposed changes, please see the Department of Planning and Environment websit e, or visit the following links:

• F requently asked questions (PDF, 275 KB)
• Information sheet (PDF, 106 KB)
• NSW Planning Portal

Resources for Farmers

Business planning guide, planning approval guide, planning glossary, farmer toolkit, lga land zones, list your business on atdw, national agritourism framework | australia regional tourism, national agritourism strategy framework, agritourism 2030 action plan, toolkit for lgas,  enabling agritourism.

Destination Central West NSW acknowledges the many Aboriginal Nations and Aboriginal People of the Central West NSW region as the traditional carers and custodians of the land that we all now live and work on. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging. Destination Central West NSW values the diversity of this region and works in partnership with local Aboriginal communities to respectfully celebrate and share Aboriginal culture with visitors to the region and also with locals who live here.

Website by The Destination Agency, Tourism Marketing Australia

New guide to setting up an agritourism business

A new guide from the NSW Government helps farmers set up agritourism businesses on their land

26 September, 2023

Setting up an agritourism business explains what planning approvals are needed and how landowners can meet the requirements. It also includes practical advice on issues such as location and design.

The release of the guide follows changes to the government’s agritourism policy in August 2023 that updated local environmental plans to expand the use of agritourism across NSW.

The changes mean agritourism (which includes farm experience premises and farm gate premises) is now permitted with consent in all RU1 Primary Production, RU2 Rural Landscape and RU4 Primary Production Small Lots zones in local environmental plans (LEPs) and in other zones councils have nominated. 

The government has also removed the 100 visitors limit to farm gate premises for pick-your-own produce under exempt and complying development.

The agritourism policy, developed in conjunction with the NSW Small Business Commissioner, was introduced on 1 December 2022 with the aim of making it easier for farmers to make secondary use of their land for agritourism.

For more information and to download the guide, visit the agritourism webpage . 

Content Library

Media centre, resource hub.

Business support

• Get Connected
• NSW First Program
• Signposting
• Marketing campaigns
• Consumer marketing
• Event investment
• Business events
• Vivid Sydney
• International
• Newsletters
• Our organisation
• Strategies and plans
• Annual reports
• Access to information
• Destination networks

Content Library Images, videos and editorial content showcasing destinations and experiences across Sydney and NSW.

Images, videos and editorial content showcasing destinations and experiences across Sydney and NSW.

Destination NSW marketing resources to help with promotions, including our brand guidelines, industry toolkits, campaign logos and images.

Grants & funding

Find a Destination NSW initiative, grant or funding program to help support your visitor economy business, project or community.

Showing 6 items

Regional Event Fund: Event Development

The Event Development stream remains open until funds are exhausted. The stream supports events that have received maximum Flagship Event funding and can present a comprehensive strategy for future growth as drivers of tourism.

Regional Event Fund: Incubator Event stream

The Incubator Event stream offers seed funding to eligible events in regional NSW to support their first or second year of activity.

Tourism Product Development Fund

Previous rounds of funding have supported projects including the upgrading of existing accommodation and the development of new visitor experiences across NSW.

NSW Regional Business Event Development Fund

The NSW Regional Business Event Development Fund is designed to help stakeholders create, attract and support exciting business events for regional NSW and to support new business event initiatives.

Regional Event Fund: Flagship Events

The Flagship Event stream provides funding for the marketing of emerging events to increase their profile and encourage visitation.

Aviation Attraction Fund

The Aviation Attraction Fund was created to accelerate NSW’s Road to Recovery, by building aviation capacity to the state through securing routes to drive significant economic and social benefits.

Stay informed about the range of programs Destination NSW offers by joining our database. Visit the Contact Us page, choose the Grants and Funding enquiry type and submit your details.

Stay on top of visitor economy news Subscribe to our newsletters

Quick links.

Helpful resources from Destination NSW

Was this page useful?

Feedback on this page

Funding & Grants

Recording and touring grants.

Closes 17 April 2024

EV Charging Grants

Closes 2 August 2024

2024/25 Regional Event Fund

Closes 9 April 2024

Climate-Smart Agriculture Program Capacity Building Grants Round 1

Closes 28 March 2024

Telstra Connected Communities Program

Closes 27 March 2024

Qantas Regional Grants

Closes 10 May 2024

Vibrant Streets Package

Energy efficiency grants for small and medium sized enterprises.

Closes 8 April 2024

Open Streets Program

Closes 30 April 2024

2024 NAIDOC Local Grants

First nations tourism mentoring program, contemporary music tourism program, industry growth program.

Apply at any time

'Lights On - Doors Open' Stipend Program

On farm efficiency grants, on farm connectivity program.

Closes 31 May 2024

Regional Precincts and Partnership Program

Nsw government's grants & funding page.

Find a government initiative, grant or funding program to help support your business, your project or your community.

Future Food Systems

Greater sustainability and improved nutrition through smart technology and supply chain logistics

Food, beverage and technology grant opportunities: an Australian round-up

Dozens of grant programs relevant to CRC partners are offered to Australian businesses and other organisations by federal, state and territory government agencies. Some of these programs are focused on helping Australia’s ‘priority sectors’ bolster their resilience to future disruptions. Some funding is earmarked specifically for food and agribusiness ventures; some is for manufacturing ventures; still other grant programs and initiatives involve funding for R&D.

Click on the tabs below to skip directly to grants available nationwide, or in a specific state or territory.

Australia-wide (national)

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

New South Wales (NSW)

Queensland (Qld)

Northern Territory (NT)

Western Australia (WA)

South Australia (SA)

Victoria (Vic)

Tasmania (Tas)

Types of grants

Grant funds are available to assist businesses and other entities in food/beverage/nutraceuticals/health product manufacturing and processing, and in related technology and services, to:

• modernise, innovate, scale up, export and/or employ more people;
• develop new and/or associated products, processes or technologies;
• help grow Australia’s regions and provide regional jobs – including advancing regional infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, food, wine and/or related businesses such as hospitality and/or tourism (including food tourism, wine tourism and agritourism);
• build businesses or develop processes and/or technologies that follow ‘circular economy’ principles, deploy and/or advance renewable energy technology and/or encourage uptake of such technology, and/or reduce or offsets food waste;
• advance Aboriginal business enterprises;
• develop ideas, businesses, processes and/or technologies that help streamline or bolster reliable supply chains for essential goods and services such as food, beverages and medicinals.

It’s worth checking (and re-checking, at regular intervals) the funding sections of the websites of relevant federal and state or territory government departments (business, industry, agriculture, energy, science and technology); peak industry body sites; and those of independent organisations, venture capitalists and investors.

Criteria for eligibility

Most funding bodies expect applicant enterprises, institutions and/or consortiums to have bona fide credentials and at least some runs on the board, with paperwork and business records to prove it. They also expect applicants to have sound, feasible ideas supported by business plans, documentation, and brief-fulfilling grant proposals – plus, in some cases, sufficient capital to match funds dollar for dollar (for co-funding grants).

For R&D grants, industry applicants may also need to have actual or potential research partners at the ready; and vice-versa – research entities applying for grants with an industry focus may need to apply with an industry partner on board.

Australia-wide

Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) Round 1 funding: Translation and Integration The Australian Government Department of Industry, Science, Environment and Resources (DISER)’s$1.3 billion Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI), a key part of the Modern Manufacturing Strategy, supports projects across Australia’s six identified National Manufacturing Priorities that reflect Australia’s competitive advantages and emerging priority areas. These include Food and Beverage manufacturing and Renewables manufacturing. Round 1 of the MMI funding is aimed at businesses wanting to scale up, employ more people and prepare to export. Funds are to assist such firms with translation and integration projects. For further information, view our news stories  here  and here .

Australian Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) Commercialisation Fund

The Federal Government recently announced a new $30m Commercialisation Fund for Australian manufacturers. The Fund is offering grants ranging from $100,000 to $1 million, dollar-matched by industry. For details, view our news story .

Entrepreneurs’ Programme

Get expert advice and grant funding through the federal government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme . The program aims to help small and medium sized Australian businesses to ‘strengthen, grow, innovate and commercialise’, nationally and globally. It connects SMEs with the capabilities and networks they need to do this.

The Programme can assist SMEs in: rebuilding their businesses after disruptive events; grow their businesses; improve supply-chain performance and/or capability to trade and export; develop innovative solutions and connect with the research sector; commercialise a product, process or service into production and onto the market; and/or fund incubators for Australian start-ups with an international focus.

Get grant opportunity guidelines here: PDF · 0.33 MB or DOCX · 0.26 MB,

Subscribe to receive up-to-date news and services from the Entrepreneurs’ Programme.

Innovation Connections Grants

Administered under the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Innovation Connections (IC) Grants help businesses in any of the Commonwealth’s six ‘priority growth sectors’ (or businesses that provide enabling technologies and services to these growth sectors) fund collaborative research projects. The eligible growth sectors include advanced manufacturing; food and agribusiness; and medical technologies and pharmaceuticals.

IC grants enabling a business to undertake a collaborative research project must be applied for within 12 months of receiving a Service report clarifying that business’s research needs and opportunities. It is recommended you contact a facilitator in your state or territory before starting the grant application process, to find out if your company meets the eligibility requirements, whether the service is suitable, and to assist with the application process. Also refer to the  Customer Information Guide  for information on eligibility criteria.

To apply for an Innovation Connections Grant, a business must have received a Service Report within the past 12 months; spoken with an assigned Facilitator about grant suitability; and found a PFRO research partner. It must also be able to fund the total project costs without using in-kind contributions or funds from other government grants or programs to do so. Once you’re your business has fulfilled all the eligibility requirements, apply here.  For further information or assistance, contact the Grant Program admin or phone 13 28 46 (8am-8pm weekdays Australia-wide).

Accelerating Commercialisation fund

Part of the federal government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme, the Accelerating Commercialisation fund provides SMEs, entrepreneurs and researchers with access to expert advice and funding to help get novel products, processes or services to market. The new Accelerating Commercialisation guidance form is now available. For information, view our news story,

Advancing Renewables Program

The Advancing Renewables Program  is aimed at businesses that require funding or finance to develop renewable energy technologies. Activities must either involve a renewable energy technology; or involve methods (including desktop studies and analysis) that can contribute to the program outcomes. The renewable energy technologies may include hybrid technologies and technologies that are related to renewable energy technologies (including enabling technologies). Apply at any time for matched funding of between $100,000 and $50 million.

To be eligible, firms must have an Australian business number (ABN); be an Australian incorporated entity unless applying for funding for desktop studies and analysis that do not include research (TRL 1-3). Unincorporated entities such as universities and not-for-profits can partner with an incorporated entity to help deliver a pilot, demonstration or pre-commercial deployment activity, as long as the activity is led by the incorporated entity. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply at  Advancing Renewables Program , or contact 1800 804 847

R&D Tax Incentive

Offset your R&D costs to help innovate and grow your business . Your company needs to be liable to pay income tax in Australia, conduct at least one activity that meets the definition of a core R&D activity and incur the minimum eligible R&D expenditure. If your eligible R&D expenditure is less than $20,000, you can still apply for the offset if you use a registered  Research Service Provider  (RSP) to conduct your R&D. Apply with the Department of Industry, Science, Energy & Resources within 10 months of the end of your company’s income year. Watch this short video on the benefits of the R&D Tax Incentive and eligibility. Download descriptive transcript DOCX – 0.02MB Get more information: Key details . Eligibility . Applying . Contact .

Export and Regional Wine Support Package

The federal government’s $50m Export and Regional Wine Support Package has delivered three grant programs to date. Round 2 for 2020–21, currently open, is aimed at helping to counter the impacts of COVID-19 on in-market events.

Wine Australia is providing $1m towards this round of Wine Export Grants, which funds eligible wine producers for up to $25,000 towards reimbursement for up to half the cost of promotional activities incurred on or after 1 July 2020 in any export market.

The grant program is capped at $1 million, with funding accessed on a first-come, first-served basis. Around $870,000 remains to be allocated at time of publishing. SME wine producers (those with an aggregated turnover of less than $20m and export turnover of less than $5m in 2019-20) are eligible.

First read and understand the guidelines ; refer to the Eligible Expenses table to collate supporting evidence; complete the  Statutory Declaration ; then apply here. Ancillary resources that may help with your application:

• Examples of eligible expenses
• Frequently Asked Questions (updated regularly)
• Tips to complete a Wine Export Grant application  ; and
• Registration user guide to register on the Grant Portal.

AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award

Apply for the 2022 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award with innovative ideas and projects from August 2021. State and territory finalists and the national winner receive substantial bursaries as well as access to professional development opportunities.

Food Innovation Australia Ltd (FIAL) project grants

Though there are no FIAL grants available currently, it’s worth checking the grants section of the Commonwealth’s Growth Centre for Food and Agribusiness, Food Innovation Australia Ltd (FIAL) site occasionally for updates.

To view all federal government grant funding, visit www.business.gov.au.

Australian Capital Territory

Covid-19 economic survival package act.

Delivered by the ACT Government, the Economic Survival Package incorporates various support measures to help small businesses survive the impacts of COVID-19 including a business liaison centre; up to four hours of one-on-one fully subsidised, tailored advice; access to online business development resources for SMEs; waivers for food business registration, outdoor dining, liquor and other business licensing fees; rebates on electricity fees, commercial general rates; payroll tax deferrals and waivers for various industries; relief for commercial tenancies; and more. To apply, or find out more about these measures, view the Economic Survival Package or phone 02 6205 0900 . View other COVID-19 grants and support.

2021-2022 ACT Rural Resilience Grants

The ACT Government’s third round of Rural Resilience Grants is focused on supporting rural landholders across the Australian Capital Territory in addressing threats to farming operations posed by weeds and pest animals. Farmers can use the grant funding to improve the health and diversity of their lands and the condition of natural resources.

New South Wales

Nsw government regional job creation fund.

The $100m NSW Government Regional Job Creation Fund is designed to help regional businesses across NSW fast-track expansion plans, create jobs and stimulate the local economy. Grants of between $100,000 and $10 million are on offer. Each applicant must provide a minimum of 50 per cent in cash co-contribution.

To be eligible, applicants must be a registered business or cooperative, with an ABN, and at least $20 million in public liability insurance. Applications close at 5pm AEST, Friday 14 May 2021. For further information, click here .

NSW Regional Growth Fund

The NSW Government’s $2b Regional Growth Fund supports infrastructure to develop regional centres, activate local economies and improve services in communities across the state. More than $1.7b has been committed to more than 2,100 projects to date; another $300m will be allocated over the next two years to ‘vital community upgrades and job-creating projects for families and businesses across regional NSW’. Applications are open to local government, regional organisations, industry and other community organisations. The state government’s Regional Development Framework provides ‘an overall vision’ for the Fund, laying out a 30-year plan for regional development. Learn more.

Export Assistance Grants NSW

The aim of the state government’s Export Assistance Grants  is to provide NSW-based exporting businesses, or businesses that were exporting goods or services before the impacts of COVID-19, recent bushfires or drought with funding to help them access global markets.

Funds can be used for: marketing materials; website internationalisation; pivoting to online delivery (for example, converting face-to-face training content to online content for international audiences); e-commerce development; market research; international tradeshow and trade missions; inbound business support; costs to support compliance/localisation of products for export; and costs to protect business in international markets. Businesses can apply at any time for funding of up to $10,000.

For eligibility and application guidelines, and to apply, visit the Export Assistance Grant s web page. For further information, contact [email protected] or phone 13 77 88.

NSW COVID-19 grants and support

COVID-19 grants and support for NSW

Northern Territory

Innovation nt funding.

The Innovation NT web page outlines and links to a broad array of international, national and NT-based grants, as well as to the sites of venture capitalists and lenders that may be of relevance to food or agribusinesses seeking funding for R&D, start-ups, expansion and commercialisation projects. For more information, contact [email protected]

Northern Territory (NT) Government Business Growth Program

The NT Government Business Growth Program is open to NT-based businesses, not-for-profit organisations and Aboriginal enterprises. It offers information, funding and development services to help businesses improve performance, profitability, employment levels and/or market penetration. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply . For more information or assistance, email [email protected] .

NT Government Business Innovation Program

The NT Government’s Business Innovation Program (BIP) helps Northern Territory businesses develop and commercialise innovation concepts. Eligible businesses can apply for mentoring and funding to support planning, development and implementation of an innovation commercialisation plan (ICP). Successful applicants receive professional mentoring through the NT Government’s Innovator in Residence program; and funding of up to $30,000 on a dollar-for-dollar matched basis.

The program is run in three stages: planning; development; and commercialisation. Stage one (planning) applications are now open. Before you apply , you must read and accept the program terms and conditions. Business Innovation Program terms and conditions DOCX (1.3 MB) You must register your business as a supplier of goods and services to participate in the program, and must progress through one stage to get to the next. Click here to register as a supplier . To apply for stage one of the program, fill in the application on the  SmartyGrants website . For more information, email [email protected] . Find resources to help with innovation on the NT Government’s Innovation in the NT website .

Aboriginal Business Development Program

This NT Government Aboriginal Business Development Program assists Aboriginal people interested in starting or expanding an existing business in the Northern Territory (NT). Eligible businesses can seek help with: business growth and sustainability; creating new enterprises; increasing the number of Aboriginal owned and operated businesses; increasing knowledge/skills; creating new employment; and/or developing new skills.

To find out if your enterprise is eligible for the program, you’ll need to talk with a small business champion. Applicants must be able to prove NT residency and show that the applying business is at least 50 per cent Aboriginal owned and operated, and is based and registered in the NT. An application must demonstrate a viable business. For more information, contact a small business champion .

Made in Queensland manufacturing grants Round 3

Queensland Government-initiated Made in Queensland (MIQ) grants program is designed to help SME manufacturers to innovate, become internationally competitive, increase their productivity and generate future high-skilled jobs by adopting new technologies. It complements the Queensland Advanced Manufacturing 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan .

Made in Queensland grants offer up to $2.5m in dollar-matched grants, providing 50 per cent of the costs of implementing innovative processes and technologies. After three successful funding rounds, the state government has pledged a further $15.5m to a fourth round of the program. At the time of writing, guidelines and eligibility requirements were under development.

Queensland Government agribusiness grants

The Queensland Government offers funding, grants and assistance to support existing agricultural businesses, help start new ones or help ag-related businesses surmount challenges, disruptions and other forms of hardship. Agribusiness loans, one-off grants and partnerships are available, with funding opportunities varying over time. Seek further advice from regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups , Regional Development Australia’s network of local leaders and industry associations as well as local councils, philanthropic funding bodies and government agencies. To search for specific grants, also use the:

• Queensland Government Business funding finder
• Queensland Government grants finder 
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) business assistance finder .

Advance Queensland

Advance Queensland’s programs and funds can help turn agricultural ideas into commercial projects with access to finance, new business opportunities and management support. Programs are available for entrepreneurs and start-ups, industry, investors, small business, universities and researchers.

Entrepreneurs and start-ups;  improving start-ups’ and SMEs’ access to finance, new business opportunities and management support.

Industry: supporting industry in collaborating with entrepreneurs, universities, businesses and government ‘to turn great ideas into commercial products and jobs creation’.

Small business: offering opportunities for small business to collaborate and build on innovations and ideas to help them grow, improve products and services, and compete in the global marketplace.

Universities and researchers: reinvigorating science, research and innovation to help create knowledge-based jobs for the future.

Ignite Ideas Fund

Advance Queensland’s Ignite Ideas Fund assists Queensland-based start-ups and SMEs with ‘high growth potential’ in commercialising innovative products, processes and services. Funds are to enable SMEs to grow and compete in a global market and create new jobs. Register for the AQ newsletter to ensure you’re informed when Round 8 of the fund opens. Funding is in two tiers: Tier 1 is for funding of up to $100,000 (excluding GST) for projects of up to 12 months’ duration; Tier 2 is for funding of between $100,000 and $200,000 (excl. GST) for projects of up to two years’ duration. Register for more information

Indigenous Native Food Program Qld

The Indigenous Native Food Pilot Program  provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and innovators with support in developing and commercialising new and existing native food products and/or marketing opportunities; to validate product concepts; to determine what’s needed for commercial production of a native food product (e.g. equipment, processes, formulations; raw materials; food safety; or labelling); and/or to scale up products for commercial production, for existing or new markets.

Queensland-based Indigenous businesses with ABNs that are registered for GST and have fewer than 50 employees who ar3e developing a native food with a business plan, and the intention to scale up rapidly (within 12 months) can apply at any time to receive support and collaboration from food experts from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF). Get more information about eligibility and how to apply at the  Indigenous Native Food Program .

COVID-19-related funding

Find COVID-19-related grants and support in Queensland .

Western Australia

Agribusiness innovation fund.

The Government of Western Australia’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (WA DPIRD) is committed to supporting the growth and development of the state’s food and agriculture to capitalise on growing demand from emerging markets.

Its Agribusiness Innovation Fund promotes ‘scale, efficiency and innovation … to enhance competitiveness and encourage growth in new markets’ via targeted, industry-driven R&D investment in key productivity drivers along the whole supply and value chain.

Access to new markets, notably premium and high value Asian markets, is a priority. WA DPIRD aims to achieve this through a mix of market, product, industry and investment-focused research ‘to inform the delivery of grants programs to industry consortia, grower groups, supply chain participants and research providers’.

Science and Agribusiness Connect Program

The Government of WA’s Office of Science (OSS) oversees the $3.41m Science and Agribusiness Connect Program, managed via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between OSS and DPIRD. The Program aims to equip WA agrifood businesses to increase productivity; intensify and expand operations; access capital; pursue new market opportunities; make better-informed investment decisions; and increase jobs in regional Western Australia.

Priority areas under the Program include agribusiness, food and trade ; agricultural exports ; and export services . State government grants and funding opportunities are listed under all three of these areas. See especially:

• Asian Market Success and  Grants for Asian Markets Export Program ;
• Value Add Agribusiness Investment Attraction Fund ; and
• Food Industry Innovation .

For further information, email Anita Wyntje or phone +61 (0)8 9363 4045.

Export Competitiveness Grants (ECG)

The state government’s $1m Export Competitiveness Grants program (ECG) funds projects that ‘help build the WA agrifood industry’s collective capacity for world-class production and primary/wholesale/value-adding processing for export’.

Industrial Hemp Grants Scheme

Following Commonwealth approval of hemp for human consumption, the Government of WA pledged $463,000 to the state’s industrial hemp industry, investing $300,000 of it in the Industrial Hemp Grants Scheme : individual grants for research into new varieties suitable for WA conditions and opportunities for processing industrial hemp. Grants can also be used for the development of major infrastructure and to explore market opportunities for industrial hemp products as informed by an industry-wide needs survey.

Investment Services

The Government of Western Australia’s Investment Services division supports sustainable development in agribusiness and food with grants, infrastructure, sponsorships, events, partnerships and investment opportunities. The overarching aim is to ensure industry across the state remains internationally competitive.

South Australia

Research, commercialisation and startup fund (rcsf).

The South Australian Government’s Research, Commercialisation and Startup Fund (RCSF) supports researchers, entrepreneurs and businesses in accelerating progress, under three competitive funding streams.

• Stream 1: Strategic Research Initiatives has closed.
• Stream 2: the Startup and Early Stage Company Incentive aims to provide funding for entrepreneurs to start and scale innovative early-stage businesses. The state government is accepting EOIs for this stream:
• Stream 3 supports programs, events and activities with broad benefit to the start-up community. Funding from this Stream will be awarded through calls for proposals to address specific initiatives. Details of timing and funding available will be specified with each call.

To determine your eligibility, read the Research, Commercialisation and Startup Fund Guidelines (updated November 2020) Download PDF  | 168 KB; and FAQs Download PDF  | 193 KB View a video recording of the  Research, Commercialisation and Startup Fund information session .. and/or the information session slides . For more information, email  [email protected] . Express your interest under funding Stream 2: apply now ,

Regional Growth Fund 2021–22

Through its Regional Growth Fund, the Government of South Australia pledged $150 million over 10 years to support regional South Australia. The fund is a part of its Recharging Our Regions policy. Each FY, of the $15m allocated to the Fund; $5m goes to Competitive Grants. Applicants can seek grants from $50,000 up to $2 million. The fund is open year-round. To apply for the strategic pool, first consult your local Regional Coordinator ; read the Regional Growth Fund Guidelines (PDF 721.5 KB ); and peruse the contents of the RGF online application form (PDF 424.5 KB ). For more information or further assistance, visit the PIRSA website or contact Regions SA via email on [email protected] .  

Lead Educate Assist Promote (LEAP) Grants SA

Lead Educate Assist Promote (LEAP) Grants offer funding to coordinated business groups, peak industry bodies or associations seeking financial assistance in transitioning to circular economy-based operations. LEAP Grants are designed help such organisations undertake projects that ‘lead, educate, assist and promote sustainable business practices’.

The program supports change in areas such as improved waste management, resource efficiency, and transitioning to a more circular economy. Projects must be delivered in partnership with independent service providers that are experts in their field (circular economy, waste and materials management, resource efficiency, and/or lean production). Find out more about eligibility and how to apply at Lead Educate Assist Promote (LEAP) Grants . For further information or assistance, contact [email protected] or phone 08 8204 2051 .

Valuing Business Waste Grants SA

Through its Valuing Business Waste Grants SA , the South Australian Government offers funding for businesses and not-for-profits seeking to improve their waste management practices and operations. Funds are allocated to projects that ‘identify better ways to manage waste and transition to a circular economy’. Apply at any time for funding of up to $15,000. To be eligible, you must be a business, not-for-profit organisation, tertiary education centre or government organisation; and be willing to engage an independent service provider (consultant) to deliver the project . Find out about eligibility and how to apply at Valuing Business Waste Grants . For more information or assistance , c ontact [email protected] or phone 08 8204 2051

Government of South Australia grants finder

For a comprehensive list of grants offered by the South Australian government, click here .

Victorian Business Resilience Package

Business Victoria has committed $3 billion in cash grants, tax relief and cashflow support to Victorian businesses ‘most affected by COVID-19 restrictions’, including food and beverage companies and agribusinesses, to help them stay afloat and keep Victorians in jobs. Learn more about the Business Resilience Package on Business Victoria’s website.

View more COVID-19-recovery grants and support.

Tasmanian COVID-19 recovery grants and support

View the state’s COVID-19 recovery grants, support funding and assistance.

Other useful sources of funding

Csiro kick-start.

CSIRO Kick-Start provides matched funding for start-ups and small SMEs to access CSIRO’s research expertise and capabilities. Matched funding of between $10,000 and $50,000. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply by contacting [email protected] or phoning 03 9545 8543 .

Coles Nurture Fund

Coles’ $50 million Nurture Fund, launched in April 2015, helps SMEs to innovate and grow. Over its first eight rounds, more than $24m in funds were awarded to 60-plus Australian food and liquor producers. Among them were the first quinoa processing facility in Australia, a company manufacturing chickpea tofu, a home-grown garlic enterprise and the nation’s first prawn farming technology.

Under each round of Nurture funding, SMEs can apply for grants of up to $500,000 to help develop new market-leading products, technologies and processes. Round 9 recently closed. (For reference, view the Round 9 guidelines and application form here). Stay tuned for Round 10.

NSW Tourism Grants

Unlike other grants, hospitality and tourism grants are mostly funded by the individual states in an attempt to increase tourism, both local and international. In this article, we will cover some tourism grants the NSW government has announced alongwith their eligibility criteria.

Grants for Aquariums and Zoos

The Australian Government in April 2020 announced a grant of $94.6 million towards Supporting Australia’s Exhibiting Zoos and Aquariums Program and it was announced that the program will run for the next 6 months. This grant is part of the earlier announced $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund aimed at helping regions and communities and sectors that are affected badly by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The same program was given an extension of 6 months on 28 October 2020 by the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment. The grant can be claimed by those zoos, wildlife parks and aquariums that were badly hit due to lack of tourists owing to COVID-19 restrictions.

However, they need to fulfill the below-mentioned eligibility criteria:

• Must be a region, state or national level organisation that has a proven record of conserving and presenting animals and promote interstate as well as international visitation
• Must be registered in Australia
• New entrants/applicants are ineligible under this program

Waiver of Fee and License NSW

The NSW government has announced a waiver of fee and license for a number of businesses including hospitality and tourism businesses for a period of 12 months. This grant however is available for the businesses that are based at NSW only. The following businesses will benefit from it:

Liquor and gaming : Bars, restaurants, clubs, hotels and pubs with less than three branches are eligible for a waiver of new license application fees as well as annual liquor license fees.

Fair Trading NSW : Fees waiver include tattoo parlor license fees, house building contractor’s license fees, motor vehicle repairing specialist license fees, etc.

The impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality sector was tremendous. Many business houses are yet to recuperate. Cited above are only some of the grants that are aimed at the revival of hospitality sector in Australia.

Boosting Business Innovation Program

One of the grants offered by the NSW government aims at encouraging businesses to build innovative products and services in NSW. The program’s main goal is to build better collaboration between research institutes and businesses to develop an innovative ecosystem. A total funding of $18 million is available under this program and requires the applicant to co-contribute. The program is available on an ongoing basis.

Eligibility Criteria:

All start-ups and SMEs located in NSW are eligible to apply for financial assistance under this program.

Another grant offered by the government of NSW aims at supporting start-ups and emerging SMEs that are growing at a faster pace. The main goal behind this program is to accelerate their growth and create more jobs for the residents of NSW. A total funding pool of $190 million is available for 4 years (until 2020) under this grant. The amount that can be claimed depends on the category the applicant belongs to. Under this grant, the applicant also has to co-contribute.

Below mentioned are the various categories under which the funding is available:

• To encourage promising start-ups a matched funding of up to $25,000 is available in this category.
• To encourage technology related start-ups to grow and create jobs, grants of up to $100,000 are made available.
• To encourage emerging SMEs that are quickly growing, loans of up to $500,000 are offered in this category.
• To encourage emerging fast growing SMEs in regional NSW, interest-free loans of up to $500,000 are offered by the government under this category.
• Fast growing SMEs which are creating more jobs but are unable to get financial help from lenders are offered loans of up to $1.2 million under this category.

Who can apply?

NSW industries in the following sectors can apply for financial assistance under this program.

Manufacturing, creative, digital innovation, environment, finance, food, infrastructure, education (international), life sciences, tourism and regional HQs.

The above mentioned are only some of the many grants available for tourism businesses in NSW. In order to find more information about such grants and their eligibility criteria, please speak to one of our advisors at the number mentioned below.

Other Programs:

Enquiry Form

Grants by Sector

• COVID-19 Support Grants
• Agriculture
• Business Development
• Community Development
• Construction & Trades
• Digital Content/ Apps
• Early Childcare & Education
• Export/ Import Grants
• Green Initiative
• Hospitality
• Innovation/ R&D
• Manufacturing
• Professional Business Services
• Renewable Energy Grant Funding
• Startup Business
• Transportation

Grants by Location

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia

Current Grants

Contact an Advisor

To find out if you qualify:, call 1300-005-999, quick assessment, use the eligibility test for a quick assessment.

How we can help

Request a Call back

Active grants.

Business Grants Non-Profit Grants

Assistance Programs

Small Business COVID Hardship Fund

Exporting Opportunities For Emerging Markets In Australia

Small Business Grants Information

Copyright © 2024 Grants Assist

• MyServiceNSW
• Manage account
• Logout of MyServiceNSW

Trout hatchery improvements futureproofing iconic trout fishing tourism

Published: 9 April 2024

Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

The NSW Government has invested more than $8 million in state-of-the-art upgrades to the Gaden Trout Hatchery in Jindabyne to help futureproof NSW’s iconic trout fishing sector that contributes to regional development across the state.

The commitment of the Government to recreational fishing and sustainable regional development is demonstrated through this significant multi-million-dollar upgrade to the hatchery’s production capabilities and tourist facilities. 

The Gaden Trout Hatchery sits by the Thredbo River and is one of Australia’s main centres for breeding and rearing popular freshwater sportfish including Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Tiger Trout and Atlantic Salmon.  

Each year almost three million trout and salmon are produced at the Government’s hatcheries in Jindabyne and Ebor and stocked across streams, lakes and rivers to boost recreational fishing opportunities. This is a major driver in attracting visitors to regional NSW. 

Upgrades include a new hatchery featuring hi-tech Recirculating Aquaculture Systems that control water temperatures to allow faster and more efficient fingerling production, management of broodstock and capacity to rapidly rebuild fisheries following adverse environmental conditions such as drought or flood.  

In addition to the upgrades to the hatchery, onsite education and visitor facilities have been expanded to ensure that Gaden Trout Hatchery continues to be a popular destination for tourism and recreational fishing education. 

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said: 

“Since opening in the early 1950s, the Gaden Trout Hatchery has become one of Australia’s main centres for breeding trout and salmon. 

“The new upgrades will not only allow the Government’s Fisheries team to breed and produce larger trout for stocking, but also to undertake more research to secure the future of some of our endangered native species. 

“The NSW Government is committed to building a recreational fishing sector that thrives and supports regional communities. 

“The ongoing success of the Government’s trout stocking program, funded through the Recreational Fishing Trust, highlights the great work being done by the dedicated staff at the Gaden and Dutton Trout Hatcheries.” 

Member for Monaro and Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said: 

“The $3.3 million funding from the NSW Government for the tourist centre upgrades at the Gaden Trout Hatchery will build on the popularity of trout fishing in the Snowy and give the growing tourism market a significant boost. 

“Our Government’s approach to developing the Snowy region demonstrates the sustainable and smart way we are going about delivering projects that have been talked about for years but needed us to finalise and deliver.”

Funding and Grants

Grants and funding.

Grant or funding opportunities may be available to support the development of your business, project or event.

Make sure you read the program guidelines, and entity and project eligibility carefully to ensure that your project meets the program criteria. Some grants are highly competitive with short application time frames. 

The grant and funding opportunities displayed on this page are NOT administered by Destination Southern NSW.  Please refer to the information provided on who to contact for guidance and support for each opportunity.

Destination Southern NSW may be able to provide a Letter of Support for your project if it aligns with the Southern NSW Destination Management Plan .  

Destination Southern NSW cannot determine if your organisation or project is eligible for funding. You must confirm your organisation and project eligibility under the relevant fund or program before requesting a letter of support.

Please complete this form to request a Letter of Support for your project. 

For tips and guidance on writing grant applications check out our video library here.

For general enquiries and support for your application, Contact Us .

Current Grant Opportunities

Qantas regional grants program.

The Qantas Regional Grants program is offering $2 million in support to Australian-based communities and projects that are looking to benefit regional areas. 

In its third year, the Qantas Regional Grants program is designed to help these communities sustain brighter futures by providing financial, flight and marketing support to charities, organisations, projects and individuals.  

Applications close on 10th May 2024

Find out more  here .

Lights On, Doors Open Stipend Program

Financial support for volunteer-led museums in NSW.

The ‘Lights On, Doors Open’ stipend program has been established to relieve the pressures faced by volunteer-led museums and Aboriginal cultural spaces in NSW.

Funding of $2,000 is available to provide crucial financial support to cover essential expenses like rent, electricity bills and more. The program is not for organisations developing new ideas; rather, it is aimed at supporting organisations to cover small operational items difficult to cover through other grant programs.

The application process is designed to be hassle-free, ensuring a smooth experience for all applicants.

Funding will be allocated based on the order of eligible applications received until funds are exhausted.

Find out more here .

Open Streets Program

The Open Streets Program (the Program) is a $4.5 million non-competitive grant program open to all councils across NSW. The Program aims to energise our streets with free activities and events.

The Open Streets Program aims to:

• Temporarily close streets to vehicles and open them for people, with projects over a day, or series of days, and provide safe spaces for community events and activities.
• Bring vibrancy to our streets by creating a sense of excitement and discovery with creative events and activations that are inviting and inclusive to the community.
• Support job creation in local businesses and the cultural sector.
• Support the development of longer-term place management outcomes, through projects that encourage private-public partnerships.

Funding of up to $150,000 is available to support the temporary closure of streets for placemaking activations for people. Events and activations are to be delivered by January 2025. 

Applications are now open and will close once the total program funding has been allocated, or by the application close date of 30 April 2024, whichever is first.

NSW Grants and Funding Finder

Search the NSW Grants and Funding Finder, a platform providing information on grants, savings, rebates and budget relief from 46 separate government websites.