The State Government has announced an additional $55 million for drought affected farmers, as the pressure builds on those involved in one of the worst droughts in a generation.
This morning’s announcement follows an extensive period of consultation with peak farming bodies, regional communities and farmers, following the State Government’s initial drought assistance package of $18 million last November.
Some new short-term measures include rebates for the Emergency Services Levy and commercial vehicle registration, with the bulk of the money going towards bolstering existing programs designed to help community events, mental health support and rural financial services.
Rebates under the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants have also been increased, with more resources promised to deliver and execute the grants faster than previously reported slow rates.
Listen below to Primary Industries Minister Clare Scriven speaking this afternoon to ARN Regional’s Chris Guscott on Around SA:
The full list of measures (via the State Government) within the new package includes:
- A further $13 million for On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants for rebates that assist with projects to manage drought conditions and strengthen drought preparedness;
- An additional $4 million to assist charities with freight costs to transport donated fodder to assist farmers with feeding livestock;
- Immediate financial relief by providing rebates for Emergency Services Levy and commercial vehicle registration fees for primary producers receiving the Commonwealth’s Farm Household Allowance;
- $2.5 million for an immediate and comprehensive strategy to boost mental health and resilience in drought affected areas;
- $1 million for Rural Financial Counselling Support;
- $3.5 million in additional supports for Rural Small Businesses;
- $3.1 million to assist with culling pests and manage kangaroo populations;
- $4.5 million to support producers with the implementation of electronic identification (eID) for sheep and farmed goats;
- $1.4 million to co-invest with councils in the upgrade of regional standpipes;
- $1.1 million to support the provision of standpipes for critical water needs in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu;
- $500,000 to make bulk water available from Bundaleer and/or Beetaloo Reservoirs;
- $2 million to assist sport and recreation clubs in drought affected areas through the Active Club Program;
- $400,000 to develop and encourage new regional events in drought affected areas through the Regional Event Fund;
- $250,000 to provide financial support for country students affected by drought to attend camps and excursions;
- A further $250,000 for grants of up to $5,000 for the ‘Connecting Communities Events Program’, for groups to host events that foster social connections and provide support;
- $17.4 million for Future Drought Fund Preparedness and Resilience programs
