The Victorian Government is supporting farmers impacted by drought conditions in Victoria’s southwest with a package of support that will deliver on-farm infrastructure grants and increase the region’s resilience in the future.
Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, and Minister for Agriculture, Ros Spence, announced the $13.53 million package to help farmers in eleven south-west Local Government Areas: Glenelg, Southern Grampians, Warrnambool, Moyne, Corangamite, Colac Otway, Surf Coast, West Wimmera, Ararat, Pyrenees and Golden Plains.
Farmers in Victoria’s southwest are currently facing the lowest rainfall on record, impacting stock and harvest and putting pressure on feed and water.
This has prompted the government to invest $12.1 million to help farmers prepare their properties for increasing dry conditions.
“Farmers in Victoria’s southwest are facing the lowest rainfall on record, and we’re stepping in to support them,” Ms Allan said.
“Victorians are proud of our world-class produce, and we’ll always support our world-class producers.”
Eligible farmers will receive up to $5,000 as a co-contribution grant to support water infrastructure upgrades, such as pipes, tanks, troughs, dams, stock containment areas, and grain and fodder storage.
The package also includes a $1.43 million investment in counselling and advice for farmers experiencing financial and emotional distress, which will help them make informed financial decisions and safeguard their well-being. A dedicated Drought Regional Coordinator will also be appointed to ensure support reaches people effectively.
“I’ve heard directly from farmers in the southwest about the impact drought conditions are having on our communities, and this package will drive the long-term resilience the southwest needs,” Ms Spence said.
The support package builds on the existing support available for farmers to prepare for and respond to drought, including through providers such as the National Centre for Farmer Health, farmer workshops and field days, and a database of practical information on the Agriculture Victoria website.
The Victorian Budget 2024/25 invested $59.8 million to help farmers become drought resilient and develop sustainable irrigation practices – in addition to supporting them to prepare for future droughts in partnership with the Federal Government through the $20.4 million in the Future Drought Fund.
For more information on the Drought Support Package, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons
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