Drought support welcomed

Published on 02 October 2019

Gannawarra Shire Council has welcomed the announcement that the municipality has been added to the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program Extension.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed on 27 September 2019 that the Federal Government would provide councils impacted by the prolonged dry conditions $1 million for local infrastructure and drought relief efforts.

Council’s Director Infrastructure and Development, Geoff Rollinson said the funding would be able to support identified local infrastructure projects across Gannawarra Shire.

“Council will further consider the criteria relating to projects that the $1 million of funding can support and develop a proposal for the allocation of these funds,” Mr Rollinson said.

Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said that she welcomed news that eligible farmers living in drought-declared municipalities, which now includes Gannawarra Shire, will benefit from a $3,000 payment to help cover the costs of groceries, fuel and household bills.

“Our farming families have been doing the best they can throughout the year to manage with a reduction in the availability in water and the prolonged dry conditions,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“The funding package announced by Prime Minister Morrison will go some way towards assisting residents who are struggling at the moment.”

The Federal Government announcement also included a simplification of the Farm Household Allowance.

Gannawarra residents seeking more information regarding the Drought Communities Programme Extension are encouraged to visit www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought, which features further details on the Farm Household Allowance and how to access a range of services available through the Federal Government.