Ararat Rural City Council welcomes the State Government's commitment to stand with local families affected by ongoing drought conditions, as Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence recently announced a dedicated $2 million Household Financial Relief Program.
Eligible farming families in Ararat and across 11 other drought-affected local government areas can now apply for payments of up to $1,000 to help meet urgent household expenses, providing direct financial support during these challenging times. The initiative acknowledges the significant pressures facing our region's farming communities over the past two years.
Delivering the program in partnership with the Country Women's Association (CWA) of Victoria ensures financial assistance reaches those who need it most and is directly engaging with local farmers to tailor support measures that are responsive and practical.
Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong, said "Our farming families are the backbone of the Ararat Rural City region, and this support provides much-needed relief when many are doing it tough. Every bit of assistance helps lighten the load so people can keep focusing on their wellbeing and their livelihoods. We're grateful to the State Government and the CWA for their focus on solutions that respond directly to the needs of our community."
Eligible families are encouraged to apply for a Household Financial Relief payment and can do so via cwaofvic.org.au.
To view the full range of financial, technical and wellbeing support available, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/drought or phone 136 186.
