Recent strong winds have compounded an already dire situation, blowing away topsoil and blocking out the sun. Photo: CSIRO.
South Australia’s Premier Peter Malinauskas and the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven have visited farmland in the state’s south-east to meet farmers impacted by the drought.
The SA Government is assisting regional communities and farmers through the $73 million Drought Support Package, an initiative developed in consultation with farmers and representatives of the agricultural industry.
In recognition of the extraordinary circumstances, South Australia has appointed Alex Zimmerman as the Commissioner for Drought Support to assist in managing the drought response. The Commissioner’s responsibilities include monitoring the progress of drought support and addressing issues or barriers.
“Work on funnelling support to those affected by drought right across the state remains ongoing, and we will continue to back in our farmers through this difficult time,” Mr Malinauskas said.
”We’ve now appointed a Drought Commissioner, and we are getting money out the door and into the hands of farmers as quickly as possible.”
Mr Zimmerman was previously Chief Inspector with the South Australian Police and has assisted communities impacted by other disasters.
The On-Farm Infrastructure Grants program provides payments of up to $20,000 for projects to mitigate drought effects, strengthen preparedness and manage conditions.
More than 2300 applications have already been approved.
In addition, the government has funded the cost to transport more than 6000 tonnes of donated hay to over 7000 farmers across the state.
Further support for community events to bring people together to share experiences, reinforce unity and stay strong totals $240,000. The package for drought-affected communities includes grants to cover council rates and other essential costs, as well as a significant investment in support for mental health issues.
“We are listening to the concerns of farmers, primary industry representatives and regional communities as the impacts from the drought continue to be felt across the state,” Ms Scriven said.
“We continue to monitor the rollout of the wide range of assistance initiatives available through the $73 million Drought Support Package and to ensure the support reaches those who need it.”
