NSW Nationals MLC Nichole Overall has slammed the Labor Government and the Greens for failing regional communities as drought tightens its grip across NSW.
Mrs Overall said the government's lack of action was nothing short of negligent – and that the Greens' calculated move to hijack her motion that was brought forward for debate on Wednesday and make it about climate change was an insult to the communities who are desperate for real help right now.
"Regional communities are crying out for action, not ideology," Mrs Overall said.
"Instead of delivering direct drought relief, Labor sat back and let the Greens turn an urgent debate into a patronising lecture."
More than half the state – 52% according to Department of Primary Industries Drought Indicator – is already in drought or "on the brink."
"We've heard the same empty lines ad nauseam – that Labor is 'taking it seriously' – but out in the bush, there's nothing to show for it," Mrs Overall said.
"Farmers in Victoria and South Australia are receiving direct drought assistance. In NSW, they can't even formally acknowledge drought as a natural disaster."
Mrs Overall also condemned the complacency of the Minister for Regional NSW, pointing to reports that she only rescheduled a crucial meeting after a desperate plea from Greater Hume Mayor Lea Parker was read aloud on radio 2GB.
"That tells you everything you need to know about this Labor Government, the Minister, and their priorities," Mrs Overall said.
Mrs Overall also stated the government's approach of loans and funding for coaching and workshops amounted to "a drop in the ocean – or, in this case, a drop in the bottom of a parched, cracked dam bed."
