NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro said he encourages eligible primary producers laying defences against a spring surge in mouse populations to claim the rebate which will cover 50 per cent of the cost of zinc phosphide baits, up to $10,000. 

"Our farmers have endured the toughest of conditions with recent seasons of drought, bushfires, floods, COVID-19 and now the mice plague and we want to help them protect their crops from rodents which pose a serious threat to the upcoming harvest," Barilaro said. 

Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall said with stronger zinc phosphide-based baits now available, farmers would be well equipped to face an expected spring surge of mice numbers, when the weather warmed up.

"Zinc phosphide is the best tool we have in managing the mice plague in crops, so this rebate will go a long way to support our growers, covering some of those costs," Marshall said.

"I urge farmers to start monitoring mice numbers on their farms right now and start planning how they will manage the impacts as the population increases as we approach harvest.

"We have worked closely with NSW Farmers to ensure the eligibility requirements are fit for purpose and provide support to farmers who need it most."

For more information about the zinc phosphide rebate program visit https://www.raa.nsw.gov.au/grants/mouse-znp-rebate