Government stands by farmers with $115 million drought relief package
The Premier John Brumby today announced a further $115 million in drought relief to help rural communities battling the worst drought on record. Click image for more information
The Premier John Brumby today announced a further $115 million in drought relief to help rural communities battling the worst drought on record, bringing the Victorian Government's support for farmers and rural communities to more than $400 million since 2006.
Mr Brumby said Cabinet today had brought forward a package that would deliver immediate relief for farmers - delivering $82 million in direct support to farmers; $22 million for drought employment initiatives; and $11 million to support drought-affected communities
"Cabinet today decided to bring forward the Victorian Government's drought relief package, given the urgent need for assistance for Victorian farmers in the grip Australia's longest and hottest drought on record," Mr Brumby said.
"Our Government is taking action to stand by farmers, giving them the support they need to make it through this terrible drought and to plan for the future.
"Farmers produce the food and fibre that are essential to life and have underpinned rural and regional communities for more than 150 years.
"It's vital that drought relief gets to where it is needed most and throughout sustained drought conditions our Government has continued to work closely with farming groups and rural communities to ensure our drought assistance measures are well-targeted and effective. more ...
Media contact: Jessica Harris 0409 188 743 or Matthew Hillard 0458 387 538 www.premier.vic.gov.au