Euroa electorate
Ms RYAN (Euroa) (11:43): (1912) My question is to the Minister for Agriculture. I would like to know when the minister will activate drought funding for farmers in peri-urban areas like Mitchell and Murrindindi shires. I recently met with local farmers and CFA volunteers from communities across Mitchell shire, including Pyalong, Tooborac, Nulla Vale, Glenaroua and Tallarook. They are greatly concerned by failing infrastructure, including 13 standpipes which are vital not only for those who need them to cart water for stock but also for firefighting. Those standpipes need to be upgraded at a cost of about $30 000 each. They are vital infrastructure, but Mitchell shire is struggling to meet those costs. I am concerned that the way the government is designing its drought funding means it is using arbitrary lines on a map. Drought obviously does not follow local government boundaries. I think that there is a need for the minister to review that and ensure that Mitchell has the support it needs to ensure this vital infrastructure.