The state government continues to implement support for farmers amidst one of the driest years in recent memory, but not only is its adequacy being questioned, but one MP called out the slow response to relief-seeking producers.
The On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program has been extended state-wide, offering up to $5000 to farmers in Cardinia and beyond.
The pressures of pasture re-establishment and water carting have been made eligible criteria to reflect the variety of pressures during this current drought.
The Look Over the Farm Gate program is open alongside this grant opening, which provides up to $5000 for a social event to promote connection and mental health support for farmers.
“We are listening to what farmers are telling us and tailoring our support to meet their needs,” Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said.
“It’s so important that farmers and their families know they are not alone, which is why the Look Over the Farm Gate program gives them the opportunity to come together with their community and connect with their neighbours.”
The opening of the extended program was announced on Thursday 19 June by the state government, after it was formally announced on 15 May.
The recent opening follows Nationals MP Melina Bath, who on Wednesday 18 June claimed farmers of her electorate were not seeing any response to the new relief despite the announcement in May.
“I have been hearing from tired and frustrated farmers who receive no reply upon application, while others are informed only Expressions of Interest are being taken,” she said in Parliament.
“The Labor Government’s only focus is the optics and not the outcomes for our farmers. How does it take over a month to allow farmers to apply?”
Though the state government announced the opening of the grants the day following, Ms Bath has maintained her assertion that the support is “woefully insufficient.”
The Nationals have called for subsidies on transport and support on water and feed.
“Our local Rural Financial Counselling Services are being inundated with farmers in mental and financial distress as drought conditions bite into every aspect of their life,” Ms Bath said.
“The Nationals are calling on Labor to step up and deliver the immediate financial support our farmers desperately need.”
Victorian Farmers Federation Cardinia Branch President Tony Morgan concurred that the current support does little to directly target the burden on supply and costs.
He welcomed other initiatives from Agriculture Victoria, such as waiving inspection fees on biosecurity permits for interstate fodder, as well as boosting response times for applications.
He suggested further extensions and waivers can be made in the future.
“The latest round of announcements whilst welcome, will have minimal impact on those trying to feed and water their livestock,” he said.
“Free Plant Biosecurity Permits and inspections, allowing B-Triples to enter Victoria on limited routes are welcome common-sense offerings and rebates to engage professional shooters to control kangaroos under an approved authority to control wildlife, whilst useful, could be improved if it was expanded to cover deer and feral animals.”
For more information about available drought support, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.
