IMMEDIATE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR DROUGHT-HIT FARMERS IN THE RIVERINA AND CENTRAL WEST

Drought-hit farmers in eligible Local Government Areas may be able to access one-off payments of up to $3,000 due to the Federal Government’s Drought Community Support Initiative Round 2. 

Riverina MP and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the payments would provide relief to some of the worst-hit farming families in LGAs which have been made eligible under the Drought Communities Programme.

“We know farmers are doing it tough during this prolonged dry spell and we want those who are struggling to know we have their backs – always have, always will,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Drought Community Support Initiative is another measure to assist farmers cover their day-to-day living costs such as groceries, car servicing, energy bills and medical expenses.”

Registrations are now open for drought-affected farmers, farm workers, contractors and suppliers in Bland Shire, Coolamon Shire, Cowra Shire, Forbes Shire, Hilltops Region, Lockhart Shire, Parkes Shire, Temora Shire and Weddin Shire.

“This initiative is on top of the Government’s suite of drought measures, including the Farm Household Allowance, to assist our primary producers through the difficult times,” Mr McCormack said.

“This money will be delivered in partnership with either The Salvation Army or the St Vincent de Paul Society which have both done and continue to do a power of good for their local communities.”

Applications for eligible applicants in Bland, Coolamon, Cowra, Forbes, Lockhart, Temora and Weddin shires should apply through The Salvation Army by visiting www.salvationarmy.org.au/drought or by calling 1300 551 030.

Applications for eligible applicants in the Hilltops and Parkes LGAs should apply through St Vincent de Paul Society by visiting https://drought.svdp.org.au/apply or calling 1300 846 643.

Applicants need to be over the age of 18 and live and work in an eligible Local Government Area.