![Grants for farm firefighting unit closing after unprecedented demand Grants for farm firefighting unit closing after unprecedented demand](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/Fuxf4VmvfUmd225xeYC69T/aa36b534-6409-4ce8-8fd0-b9d61f43e754.JPG/r0_246_4928_3018_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
The state government is urging farmers to get in any last-minute applications for farm firefighting unit grants before the program deadline on Sunday.
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The SA government has allocated $2 million towards the program, with unprecedented demand since applications opened on July 25.
More than 820 applications have been received in less than a month.
Emergency Minister Joe Szakacs said they had expected the grants to be popular but the high number of applications demonstrated why they were so crucial to farmers.
"The eagerness of famers to apply for these grants show the real world impacts this money will have," he said.
"Equipment purchased with the help of FFU grants can save lives, property and livestock."
Grants will reimburse approved purchases in full or a portion of a purchase from $200 to $3000.
FFU grants allow for purchase of a significant number of larger items such as a new pump and water tank, as well as smaller items like first aid kits and UHF radios.
Personal protective equipment that meets Country Fire Service standards is also included.
These grants will also be timely boost into local and rural economies, supporting the buying of new equipment.
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For those still planning to apply, grant recipients will need to ensure that FFUs are registered with the CFS to receive reimbursement.
This will guarantee the FFUs become part of the integrated statewide approach to community safety.
Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Clare Scriven said this was a vital investment in regional SA.
"These units will ensure real and practical safety for our regional communities in a dangerous situation," she said.
Applications close Sunday, August 21 at 11.59pm and can be lodged at cfs.sa.gov.au/farms/.