Explore the legislation, policies, and strategies that shape how the Future Drought Fund (FDF) operates and invests in drought resilience.
FDF Act 2019
The FDF was established on 1 September 2019 under the Future Drought Fund Act 2019 (FDF Act).
The FDF Act sets the rules for how the Fund operates and makes funding available each year for initiatives that build long-term drought and climate resilience.
The Australian Government made an initial investment of $3.9 billion. The Fund has grown over time and generates returns each year which are used to support drought preparedness and resilience programs and grants.
View the current Future Drought Fund balance.
The FDF Act also mandates the development of a Drought Resilience Funding Plan to guide this expenditure.
Funding plan
The Drought Resilience Funding Plan ensures a coherent and consistent approach is taken to developing programs under the Future Drought Fund Act 2019. It provides a high-level, principles-based framework to guide spending. It does not specify programs or activities to be delivered or delivery partners.
The current plan came into effect in 2024.
The funding plan is reviewed every 4 years to capture emerging priorities and lessons learned. Stakeholder feedback helps to inform the future direction of FDF investments and activities.
The review process includes 2 stages:
- Productivity Commission inquiry, including stakeholder feedback, with a report tabled in Parliament.
- National stakeholder consultation over a minimum 6-week period.
Other independent reviews may also take place.
Insights from these processes inform each new Funding Plan.
Investment strategy
The Investment Strategy supports the Funding Plan. It shows how we will achieve the FDF objectives. It also tells stakeholders when they can engage with drought resilience programs and activities.
Guidance for delivery partners and grantees
Information and guidance to support the planning, delivery and management of FDF-funded activities, including key funding obligations and conditions for international expenditure.
Funding Plan guidance note - delivery partners
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International expenditure guidance
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