Round 3 can cover up to half of eShepherd costs
Eligible Australian farmers can now seek rebates on Gallagher eShepherd virtual fencing technology under Round 3 of the Australian Government’s On Farm Connectivity Program, announced on 15 September 2026.
The funding can cover up to 50% of eligible eShepherd purchase costs, with the rebate capped at $20,000. Gallagher is listed as an approved supplier for the third round.
Round 3 aims to help Australian primary producers adopt connected digital technologies in their farm businesses. The government program targets tools that improve productivity, sustainability and resilience.
Gallagher said the inclusion of eShepherd gives livestock producers another way to improve grazing management, boost productivity and manage animals more flexibly.
Gallagher handles the supplier paperwork
Funding is limited, and Gallagher expects strong competition for the rebates. The company urged interested producers to start discussions early.
As part of the process, Gallagher will work directly with eligible customers and submit the supplier component of each application. Customers must complete their own declaration and provide supporting information.
Mark Dempsey, Gallagher’s Australian eShepherd business development manager, said the funding arrives as more producers seek practical technology with measurable on-farm results.
“It’s great to see the Australian Government acknowledge the power of virtual fencing in driving farm productivity, and Gallagher is pleased to be included,” Mr Dempsey said.
He said producers often first look at virtual fencing for one reason, frequently productivity, but then find wider gains after they start using it.
Those gains can include more precise grazing management, better use of available pasture, more control over livestock operations, labour savings and greater day-to-day flexibility, according to Gallagher.
Mr Dempsey said access to funding could help speed up those benefits across the industry. He also said the rebate can make the first step more accessible for farmers considering whether eShepherd fits their operation.
“Funding is limited, so we’d encourage producers to talk with our team early to understand both the eligibility requirements and whether eShepherd is the right fit for their business,” Mr Dempsey said.
Gallagher did not say when Round 3 applications close or how much total funding the government has allocated to this part of the program.
