Ag Vic Announces new Drought Package

On Monday 30 September 2024, the Victorian Government announced a $13.53 million package to support farming communities affected by the drought in south west Victoria.

Right now, many farmers in Victoria’s south west are facing the lowest rainfall on record, which is impacting stock and harvest and putting pressure on feed and water.

In response this drought support package will enable targeted support services to focus on the 11 local government areas where conditions are most impacting farmers and communities:

• Ararat
• City of Greater Geelong
• Colac Otway
• Corangamite
• Glenelg
• Golden Plains
• Moyne
• Pyrenees
• Southern Grampians
• Surf Coast
• Warrnambool
• West Wimmera*

*only primary production businesses located in post codes 3312, 3317, 3318 and 3319 are eligible to apply

The Drought Support Package includes:

On Farm Infrastructure Grants Program
Eligible farmers will receive up to $5,000 as a co-contribution grant that will support activities including water infrastructure upgrades (e.g. pipes, tanks, troughs, dams), stock containment areas, and grain and fodder storage.

Dedicated Drought Regional Coordinator
The Regional Drought Coordinator will work with local councils, Victorian Government departments, local water corporations, catchment management authorities, local health services and industry service providers to make sure support is reaching the people that need it, when they need it.

Funds to Support Additional Technical and Financial Decision Making
Additional technical, wellbeing and financial decision-making support will be provided to ensure farm businesses have access to tailored advice through one-on-one consultations, webinars, workshops, field days, and boosted online tools and information.

Support to Continue the Rural Financial Counselling Service Wellbeing Program
A Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) wellbeing counsellor will work directly with impacted families and tailor wellbeing supports to their individual needs. If neglected, the risks of short-term worries becoming long term health issues increases. RFCS Victoria West wellbeing counsellors work hand in hand with their financial counsellors to ensure that the mental health of clients receives as much attention as their financial position. Support is free and confidential. Click here to find out more about this service.

To find out more about the drought support package and how to apply, go the the Agriculture Victoria Website.