Farm leaders are calling on the state and federal governments to step up on drought support as conditions continue to deteriorate for many farming families in NSW.
NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said latest government figures indicated 18 per cent of the state was now drought-affected, with farmers in the south and southwest among those hit hard by the dry conditions.
"Things are getting tougher for many farmers, and they must not be left feeling forgotten as they face this challenge," Mr Martin said.
"Farmers know how to manage and prepare for dry periods, but the fact is, we need the tools and programs that make a difference in droughts to help us keep the wheels turning on farm, and keep the nation fed.
"In a time when we've never needed Aussie food more, our governments must not turn their back on the bush - instead, they must turn up."
Mr Martin urged the state government to support drought-affected farmers by extending funding for the Farm Business Resilience Program and Rural Financial Counselling Service, as well as the Farmgate program providing vital mental health support.
The extension of Federal Government funding for the Regional Investment Corporation beyond June 2026 was also essential to provide support, Mr Martin said, alongside work to ensure the nation's Drought Hubs were effective and fit for purpose.
"It's the support of practical, long-term initiatives like Rural Financial Counsellors or the Regional Investment Corporation that really work to boost farm business planning and resilience, and get us through these difficult times," Mr Martin said.
"Having the mental health support services in place to help farmers deal with the toll that drought can take is really important.
"We all need to look out for each other, but our government must ensure we have the tools and systems we need to not just get through the dry, but come out stronger on the other side.
"That way, we can keep on doing what we do best - and that's getting world-class food and fibre to the world."
