Posted on November 29, 2024
Supporting farmers affected by drought in SA
The State Government is investing $18 million to assist farming communities affected by drought across South Australia, as many primary producers experience their driest season on record.
The support package includes a range of measures including grants for on-farm drought resilience infrastructure, mental health and community support, and funding to enable donated fodder to reach more communities.
The package has been informed by drought round tables conducted across the state, and the SA Drought Advisory Group which includes representation from key primary industries as well as state, federal and local government.
Assistance measures include:
- $5 million for On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants for rebates of up to 75% (to a maximum of $5,000 excluding GST) that assist with projects to manage drought conditions and strengthen drought preparedness.
- $2 million to assist charities with freight costs to transport donated fodder to assist farmers with feeding livestock.
- $1 million for additional health and wellbeing support through the Rural Financial Counselling Service and Family and Business Support Program.
- $100,000 for grants of up to $5,000 for the Connecting Communities Events Program, for groups to host events that foster social connections and provide support during these challenging times.
- $4.4 million budget commitment to provide Family and Business (FaB) Mentors and Rural Financial Counsellors, who provide free confidential and independent services that link people with the appropriate assistance.
- $5.5 million funding provided to the State and Federal Government’s Future Drought Fund, which includes ongoing programs to help farmers with farm business resilience planning, climate tools and demonstrating more resilient farming practices.