The Victorian Government originally announced $3 million in funding for the rebate scheme.
The scheme provides rebates of up to $5000 to improve safety on-farm — with the existing funds committed in five weeks.
More than 800 applications were received across 45 local government areas.
Examples of equipment and infrastructure that were eligible for the rebate include child safety fencing, animal handling equipment, dedicated chemical storage sheds and wash stations, emergency shut-off switches and reversing cameras for tractors and vehicles.
Victorian Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the additional funding would mean safer farmers, families, employees, suppliers and contractors.
The government is partnering with the VFF to provide farm safety advice and support for all Victorian farmers through the Making our Farms Safer project.
The VFF has been granted $3 million to employ two farm safety officers and deliver new farm safety resources to Victoria’s farmers.
WorkSafe Victoria also provides agriculture safety information in addition to the OHS Essentials program, which is a free workplace safety consultation service delivered by independent occupational health and safety experts.
In addition, Kidsafe is delivering a child safety on farms competition and social media campaign over three years through Victoria’s primary schools, which includes parent and class resources.
There are a range of child safety resources including the Farm Safety Checklist and a Parent’s Guide to Kidsafe Farms.
22°C