Since 2013 the Queensland State Government has spent $670 million to help primary producers in Queensland with the Government allocating more than $140 million in this year’s budget to not only help affected farmers deal with this drought but also plan ahead to ensure they are financially stable for the next drought. This Package includes a number of programs in operation since the beginning of this drought – five years ago. Visit the latest drought situation map here: https://www.longpaddock.qld.gov.au/drought/drought-declarations/
Drought Assistance Package
The State Government is maintaining existing drought relief arrangements with $34.6 million budgeted for the Drought Assistance Package in 2018-19.
The 2018-19 Drought Assistance Package financial assistance provided to drought declared primary producers includes:
• $20 million for the Drought Relief Assistance Scheme (DRAS), which provides freight subsidies of up to 50 per cent for fodder and water during drought, freight rebates on the movement of livestock after drought revocation, and an up to 50 per cent rebate on the purchase of Emergency Water Infrastructure for livestock. Claims can be up to $40 000 per year. This scheme is administered through the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF)
• $4.2 million for Land Rent Rebates, currently at 15 per cent, and water licence waivers. This program is administered through the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy (DNRME)
• $10.4 million for the Drought Relief from Electricity Charges program which provides fixed fee relief and drought tariffs to irrigators and other agricultural purposes impacted by low water availability. This scheme is administered through DNRME.
Rural Assistance Package
The $36 million Rural Assistance Package launched in 2016, introduced a number of new initiatives to help producers in managing drought and debt, including the introduction of a Farm Debt Mediation service, reintroduction of the rural debt survey, assistance with the cost of sending children to school, and a $3 million Farm Business Grants program.
Primary Industries Productivity Enhancement Scheme (PIPES)
There is an ongoing commitment to the Primary Industries Productivity Enhancement Scheme (PIPES), where the State Government provides concessional loans to primary producers which could be used for a range of activities to improve the sustainability of their property including, for example, drought proofing measures such as grain and water storages. At the end of June 2018, the PIPES portfolio had $470 million in loans to producers, with provision for a further $100 million available in the current financial year.
Drought and Climate Adaption Program (DCAP)
The State Government is providing $21 million over six years through its Drought and Climate Adaptation Program (DCAP) for research, development and extension projects to improve seasonal and climate forecasts at the regional level, and the tools needed to integrate them into producers’ farm business planning. The aim is to enhance the drought and climate preparedness of primary producers. Further information on DCAP can be found at here.
Further information on drought assistance available to primary producers:
Or contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, on 13 25 23 or by email at droughtdeclarations@daf.qld.gov.au
There are also counselling services available for drought-affected communities that can be found here.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) also provide a Drought Wellbeing Service which can be found here.
Queensland Health also offer assistance via rural and remote drought and disaster community grants that can be found here.
For information on the Queensland Drought Appeal visit: https://www.facebook.com/markfurnermp/videos/1984297828268051/
To donate visit www.qlddroughtappeal.com.au or text ‘DROUGHT’ to 0484 200 200
Federal Government Assistance
The Australian Government provides a number of assistance measures for farmers and rural communities affected by drought and other hardship. More information can be found at: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought/assistance
Non-Government Assistance
A number of non-government organisations and appeals are available to provide drought assistance. You can assist those in need by visiting the following:
Rural Aid
Drought Angels
Buy A Bale
The Salvation Army
QLD Drought Appeal
Queensland Country Women’s Association