A collaboration between the Australian and NSW Governments and five central west councils has developed a regional drought resilience plan to support local communities.
The Regional Drought Resilience Planning (RDRP) Program is a joint initiative between five Central West Councils; Orange City, Blayney, Weddin, Cabonne and Cowra Shire Councils, and is funded by the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund and NSW Government.
The Regional Drought Resilience Plan (the Plan) was developed in consultation with a range of business and community stakeholders across the consortium to ensure the actions were specific to the Central West region and based on community experiences.The project has delivered a suite of practical tools, including campaign collateral and communication plans, mental health support resources, and options for tailored business programs. These will be implemented across the region to provide timely support, improve preparedness and help communities and businesses respond to drought conditions.
The plan provides guidance to help our region better plan for drought and become more resilient to the impacts when droughts arrive. While it is a cross-council plan it acknowledges that each local government area may have different challenges and may need to respond in different when drought arrives.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP
"This initiative is all tiers of government working together to help regional communities in Central-West NSW strengthen their drought and climate resilience.
"At our National Drought Forum last year, we heard about the importance of having drought plans that can be tailored to the individual needs of regions, which is exactly what this initiative supports.
"We know drought is a case of when not if, which is why the Albanese Labor Government is working with our farmers and regional communities to boost their drought preparedness and to help keep them productive."
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said droughts are often thought of as an issue for primary producers.
"What we heard in the consultation was that droughts can have broad impacts way beyond the farmgate and it's not just about the economy. We can't make droughts disappear, but we can be prepared to support our communities when dry times are coming. This plan is the tool for that support," Cr Mileto said.
Weddin Mayor Paul Best said the finalisation of the program was timely.
"While there has been some wet weather across the region recently, our memories of the challenges that come with drought remain fresh. Weddin is prepared and ready to implement these deliverables, to support our community when required," Cr Best said.
Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty said the plan was an important step forward in strengthening the region's preparedness for future drought conditions.
"As a farmer myself, I believe this plan is a strong example of our councils coming together to develop practical tools that will benefit all of our communities. We've all experienced drought before, so we understand the challenges it brings for farmers, business owners, and our communities. The effects reach far and wide, and this plan has been designed to ensure we're better prepared to support one another when those difficult times return," Cr Beatty said.
Blayney Mayor Bruce Reynolds said he welcomes the release of the plan.
"It will provide strong guidance to our staff and the community during times of severe drought on how we as a Council can provide support and guidance to the agricultural sector and our businesses. It is always important to be prepared for the impacts of drought on businesses and provide early information and collaboration with our community during times of adversity," Cr Reynolds said.
Cowra Mayor Paul Smith said the strength of the plan lies in the way it has been developed collaboratively across the region.
"Drought doesn't stop at council boundaries, and neither should our response. By working together, we've developed a practical plan that recognises the unique needs of each community while providing a coordinated approach to preparedness and support across the Central West," Cr Smith said.
