State Government Announces Further Boost to Drought Support Package

Last week, the State Government announced further funding to support farmers affected by drought and dry conditions, including increased support to deliver the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants Program.

A further $15.9 million has been allocated to help more farmers and communities, expanding support to farmers in several other local government areas, following those previously included in the State Government’s $13.5 million drought support package, announced last September.

The support package will continue for eligible Ararat Rural City residents, now offering farm businesses with technical and decision-making support right across the state. These services will be delivered in partnership with a range of technical specialists, to support farmers to manage the impacts of increasingly difficult dry conditions.

Available support under the State Governments’ Drought Support Package includes:

On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants Program

Eligible farmers will receive up to $5,000 as a co-contribution grant that will support activities including water infrastructure upgrades (such as pipes, tanks, troughs and dams), stock containment areas, and grain and fodder storage.

Farmers in southwest Victoria who were previously eligible can apply now via: www.ruralfinance.com.au/grants/

Statewide Technical Decision-Making Support 

Agriculture Victoria’s farm business technical and decision-making support will include a range of technical specialists who can support farmers to manage the impacts of increasingly difficult seasonal conditions. The program works with farmers to ensure farm businesses have access to tailored advice through one-on-one consultations, webinars, workshops, field days, and boosted online tools and information.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Support

A ‘Look Over the Farm Gate’ mental health and wellbeing grant program will be available statewide to help communities come together and support farmers and farming families under stress.

More information about the Drought Support Package is available via: agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons

“While we recognise the broader financial pressures facing our community, including the incoming Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy, the immediate need for drought support for our farmers remains paramount," says Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong."

“I strongly encourage all eligible primary producers to carefully consider the criteria and apply for the available State Government assistance. This support is crucial in helping our rural sector to navigate these persistent and challenging dry conditions."