What is pressurised irrigation?

Using a pump, pressurised water is delivered on farm through a network of pipes. Systems such as microjet, drip tape, lateral move irrigators or centre pivots are eligible for funding.

How would pressurised irrigation benefit my farm?

Pressurised systems effectively increase water savings on farm. They allow controlled delivery of water to each plant and also allow the option of fertigation. Pressurised systems may also:-

• improve management of irrigated agriculture;
• provide a potential for automatic irrigation systems; and 
• increase production per megalitre.

What funding assistance is available for pressurised irrigation?

Incentives are available for pressurised irrigation systems completed after July 1998.  For each system, the incentive offered is 80% of the total cost of the system up to a

maximum of $17,000.  Incentives are available for a maximum of two systems per farm.

Can I claim a rebate for existing pressurised irrigation?

If you have an existing pressurised irrigation system that was installed after July, 1998, you may be eligible for a retrospective incentive. Pressurised irrigation systems completed before July, 1998 are not eligible for the incentive.

What are the requirements for pressurised irrigation systems to be eligible for funding assistance?

• Area must be greater than 5 hectares for drip, microjet or tape systems.
• Area must be greater than 20 hectares for lateral move irrigators or centre pivots.
• Pressurised systems completed before July 1998 are not eligible for the incentive.
• There must be a separate layout plan of the pressurised system meeting the industry standard.
• EM-31 is optional for horticultural sandhill areas, but compulsory for areas that have both clay and sand.
• The pressurised system must have flow control, no leaky pipe.
• The landholder must complete a CICL approved pressurised irrigation workshop. CICL will withhold $2000 of the incentive until landholders have completed this course.
• For large area farms an LWMP compliant Whole Farm Plan must be completed or there should be a commitment to proceed with a Whole Farm Plan.

How can I apply for the full pressurised irrigation funding incentive?

• Complete the Application Form (see below).
• Retain all receipts and associated documents and submit to Coleambally Irrigation.
• Payments may be paid upfront to the landholder with an agreement from the landholder that the system will be completed within a one year period.
• If the works are not completed within the due time, the incentive amount will be refunded to CICL and interest will be charged at the company rate.

How do I apply for a funding incentive for an existing pressurised irrigation system?

To apply for retrospective funding incentive for a pressurised irrigation system completed after July, 1998:

• Complete the Application Form (see below).

Pressurised Irrigation