Joint media release with Minister for Water Resources, Drought, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency Management, The Hon David Littleproud MP

Farmers and growers will get better access to vital water market information through a new web and mobile app, created thanks to $1 million funding from the Morrison Government.

The Waterflow platform was developed by natural resource economics firm Marsden Jacob Associates to give irrigators improved access to timely, reliable and real-time information in a single, easy-to-use source.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the company received support through the Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII).

“The Waterflow app is a great example of how technology can make a big difference in some of our most established and important industries,” Minister Andrews said.

“This technology is helping solve complex issues faced by the agricultural industry and will have a positive impact on farmers’ livelihoods and boost the economy.

“Importantly, this is a powerful tool for increasing market accessibility and leveling the playing field, further enhancing the positive economic benefits of innovative technology.”

Minister for Water Resources David Littleproud said the Waterflow tool would give irrigators greater confidence in the water market and to use the market to manage their risks.

“This app is a one-stop shop giving irrigators real-time information so they can make the best possible business decisions,” Minister Littleproud said.

“It puts the power in farmers’ hands to get the best out of the water market in changing conditions.

“It’s also been designed to work where mobile signal is weak, so more farmers will be able to access the real-time data.

“This is an example of how the Federal Government is improving market transparency to benefit growers across the Basin.”

The BRII initiative provides grants for small and medium businesses to develop solutions in response to challenges identified by a range of government agencies.

Further information on the program and grant recipients can be found at www.business.gov.au/BRII

The web-based version of Waterflow is available now and the mobile app version will be available in coming weeks. For more information go to www.waterflow.io

Media contacts:

Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7180

Minister Littleproud's office 02 6277 7630