The Victorian Government recently announced additional support to ease the burden on farmers experiencing drought conditions in the driest regions of the state.
On 12 September 2018, the Victorian Government announced an additional $5 million in funding as the next stage in supporting farmers affected by drought conditions in Central and East Gippsland. This funding will also support farmers in Northern and North West Victoria where 2018 rainfall has been significantly below average.
The package includes:
- $1.4 million for Drought Infrastructure Grants (Central and East Gippsland)
- $1.2 million for a new Drought Employment Program (Central and East Gippsland)
- $1 million for technical and business support (Central and East Gippsland, Northern and North West Victoria)
- $400,000 for the Look Over the Farm Gate Program (Central and East Gippsland, Northern and North West Victoria)
- $500,000 for a community resilience program (Central and East Gippsland)
- $500,000 for drought coordinators (Central and East Gippsland, Northern and North West Victoria).
The support is in addition to increased funding to boost the Rural Financial Counselling Service and other existing services. Agriculture Victoria has conducted more than 60 workshops to date with more to come. Agriculture Victoria is also providing free one-on-one consultations to farmers needing extra advice and assistance.
Agriculture Victoria, together with industry groups, is encouraging farmers to access available information, develop a plan and make informed decisions relevant to their circumstances.
For more information and resources, see agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons
