Western Australian farmers can access grants and interest-free loans from a state government drought support package
The WA state government has announced an $8.6 million package to support farmers and rural communities impacted by drought.
The first part of the support package includes $2 million in hardship grants, with farmers facing financial hardship able to apply for up to $5,000 to cover costs of stockfeed, water and transportation.
Another $4 million will be available in the form of interest-free loans, with farmers able to apply for up to $25,000.
These loans can also be used to cover the costs of stockfeed, water and transportation, along with establishing feed silos, water tanks, improved irrigation or other infrastructure that supports drought resistance.
These loans are repayable over five years, the WA government says, with no repayments required for the first two years.
Another $1.5 million will be provided to extend the Community Water Supplies Partnership Program to more regional communities, with grants to establish or improve non-potable water supplies.
The government will also contribute $875,000 to support mental health and community wellbeing programs, split between Blue Tree Project, Grower Group Alliance, Regional Men’s Health and Rural West.
Donations of $150,000 to Farmers Across Borders and $75,000 to Rural Aid will also be made as a way of helping these charities support drought-affected farmers.
“We know the current dry conditions mean rural communities across the State are struggling,” WA agriculture and food minister Jackie Jarvis says.
“This significant $8.6 million support package for our primary producers will provide relief to those facing financial hardship and ensure that mental health and community wellbeing services are easily accessible across the regions.”
The funding announcement was informed by the work of the Dry Season Taskforce, which is made up of agricultural industry leaders and aims to identify ways the state government can provide drought relief.
Grant and loan applications can be made through the WA government.