Tuesday, 15 October 2019

In reply to  Mr BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (15 August 2019)

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Resources):

The Victorian Government is committed to supporting farmers through drought and dry conditions. We have provided over $50 million of additional support to enable farmers and communities to prepare for and manage dry seasonal conditions.

I understand Victorian farmers are concerned about access to quality and affordable grain and fodder coming into Spring, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing dry conditions in New South Wales and Queensland. However, initiatives like fodder freight subsidies can have unintended consequences such as inflated prices for everyone else in the market.

The Farm Business Assistance program provides a one-off payment of up to $3,500. This payment is flexible and can be used to address business cost pressures such as council rates or feed for livestock.

Farm businesses in East Gippsland can also access a range of financial support to assist them manage and respond to drought and dry conditions. This support includes the:

• On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Support Grants of up to $5,000 to implement on-farm infrastructure that improves drought management and preparedness

• Pasture Recovery and Management Grants of up to $5,000 to implement pasture restoration and other land management activities that may aid in pasture recovery

• Catchment Management Authority Drought Employment program, which provides off farm employment and training for farmers, farm workers and individuals affected by drought.

A large range of mental health, technical and small business support is also available to Victorian farmers. I would encourage people to visit the Agriculture Victoria website or contact Agriculture Victoria’s Customer Service Centre on 136 186 to find out more details.

My department continues to undertake analysis and discussions with farmers, communities, and industry groups regarding the impact of ongoing dry conditions across Victoria and the likely outcomes from the 2019 growing season. These actions will inform any potential further support for farm business and communities affected by drought and dry seasonal conditions.