Drought
Emma KEALY (Lowan) (14:10): My question is to the Minister for Agriculture. South Australia has announced a $73 million drought support package, yet Victorian farmers neighbouring South Australia in the midst of the same low-rainfall conditions are only eligible for a $13.5 million drought support fund. Given the critical impacts of the drought on Victorian farmers, why has the Allan Labor government been so slow to offer support?
Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers) (14:11): I thank the member for Lowan for her question. We are all acutely aware of the extent of the drought that is being felt across not only south-west Victoria but many other parts of Victoria as well. That is why in September we did bring in that relief. That was the right thing to do at the right time. As we know, since then there has not been the autumn break. There are a lot of farmers that when it came to that Easter and Anzac Day period really became more distraught at the situation that they were facing. That is why we are looking at an additional drought package, which I will have more to say about soon; that is why we will not be waiting for spring for drought relief; and that is why we are keeping a very careful eye on the conditions to make sure that the package that we bring forward is appropriate for the circumstances.
Emma KEALY (Lowan) (14:12): As has been provided by the South Australian government, will the government commit to waiving the crippling emergency services or fire services tax bill for areas impacted by drought?
Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers) (14:12): Again I thank the member for Lowan. I know that this is a topic that is of great interest to her, and it is a topic that we have discussed on many occasions – even as recently as today. I know how important it is to her and to many in this place – in fact, I would have to say, to all of us. But what I will say is that negotiations in regard to the tax are best done with the Treasurer. I will not be making commitments on her behalf, and I understand that these matters are being canvassed in the other place right now.