A support package will be provided to farmers impacted by drought in Victoria’s southwest
The Victorian state government is providing a support package to farmers impacted by drought conditions in the state’s southwest, helping deliver on-farm infrastructure grants and increase the region’s resilience into the future.
A $13.28 million package will go towards farmers in 11 local government areas in the state’s southwest, including Glenelg, Southern Grampians, Warrnambool, Moyne, Corangamite, Colac Otway, Surf Coast, West Wimmera, Ararat, Pyrenees and Golden Plains.
Farmers in this region are currently facing the lowest rainfall on record, which is impacting stock and harvest, as well as putting pressure on feed and water.
As a result of this, the state government will invest $12.1 million to help farmers prepare their properties for increasing dry conditions.
Eligible farmers will receive up to $5,000 as a co-contribution grant to support water infrastructure upgrades to pipes, tanks, troughs, dams, stock containment areas and grain and fodder storage.
The package also includes a $1.18 million investment in counselling and advice for farmers experiencing financial and emotional distress, to help them make informed financial decisions and protect their wellbeing.
A dedicated drought regional coordinator will be also appointed to make sure support is reaching people effectively.
“I’ve heard directly from farmers in the southwest about the impact drought conditions are having on our communities, and this package will drive the long-term resilience the south west needs,” Victorian Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence says.
The support package builds on existing support available for farmers to prepare for and respond to drought, including through providers such as the National Centre for Farmer Health, farmer workshops and field days, and a database of practical information on the Agriculture Victoria website.
For more information on the drought support package, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons.