Farmers in eastern Victoria are no closer to accessing promised drought support despite Labor announcing the region eligible over a month ago.
In a statement released on 15 May, the Allan Government said it had expanded drought support to include the local government areas of Bass Coast, Baw Baw, Cardinia, and South Gippsland.
In state parliament, The Nationals’ Melina Bath called on Labor to recognise farmers desperate need for assistance.
“While dollar for dollar infrastructure grants are woefully insufficient, it is insulting that they remain unavailable for eastern Victorian farmers in drought impacted areas.
“This program has been operational in western Victoria – access to eligible local farmers should have been seamless.
“Labor must listen, announce transportation subsidies and open these grants without hesitation.”
Leader of The Nationals and Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien said it was inexplicable Labor was making farmers wait for drought support.
“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.
“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?”
Ms Bath said many Gippsland primary producers were battling mounting bills and limited or no feed or water.
“Victorian farmers and The Nationals are calling for fodder, agistment and water support.
“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. “The Nationals are calling on Labor to step up and deliver the immediate financial support our farmers desperately need.”
