The Allan Labor Government is backing Victorians farmers with $69 million of drought support packages as they battle through some of the driest conditions in living memory.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence announced today the opening of the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program statewide, with updated guidelines based on farmer feedback and expanded eligible activities.
The program, managed by Rural Finance, makes available co-contribution grants of $5,000 for all primary producers across the state, with $10,000 available for eligible farmers in south west Victoria and parts of West Wimmera to help those who have been in drought longer.
Eligible activities under the grant program now include pasture re-establishment and water carting - reflecting the wide-ranging pressures farmers are facing and ensuring support reaches where it's needed most.
Agriculture Victoria's technical decision-making services are also now live and farmers across the state can access a free one-on-one consultation with a farm advisor to help make the difficult decisions they are facing, particularly due to fodder and water shortages.
Agriculture Victoria has engaged 60 consultancy businesses in Victoria, including more than 90 individual farm advisors, who will assist farmers to take action to develop a drought action management plan.
The Look Over The Farm Gate farmer mental health and wellbeing program is also now open, bringing communities together and supporting farmers and farm families under stress.
The program, managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the Government, will provide grants of up to $5,000 for community-led events that promote social connection and mental health awareness.
Other supports are also available including the Farm Household Allowance, and Regional Investment Corporation loans.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service offers free, confidential and independent financial information, options, decision-making support and referral services to farmers and small rural businesses who are in, or at risk of, financial hardship.
For more information about available drought support, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence
"We are listening to what farmers are telling us and tailoring our support to meet their needs."
"It's so important that farmers and their families know they are not alone, which is why the Look Over the Farm Gate program gives them the opportunity to come together with their community and connect with their neighbours."
