Farmers applaud disaster relief

TasFarmers has welcomed today’s announcement by the Federal and State Governments to provide disaster recovery funding for primary producers impacted by recent severe weather during August and early September.

The Federal and State Governments have today announced that through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), grants will be made available to small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations that were directly impacted by the statewide severe weather event.
 
More than $10 million in funding will be available through three new jointly funded grant programs to assist with the cost of clean-up and restoration:

• Small Business Emergency Response Grants – up to a maximum of $25,000;
• Non-Profit Organisations Emergency Response Grants – up to a maximum of $25,000; and
• Primary Producer Emergency Response Grants – up to a maximum of $10,000 statewide. 
• Primary producers in the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands Local Government Areas may be eligible for an additional amount of up to $15,000 recognising the significant floods in those areas.

Both levels of government will also jointly support the deployment of two additional Community Recovery Officers to work closely with the community to help identify the recovery needs of individuals and families.

TasFarmers CEO Nathan Calman said that the recent extreme conditions including high winds, heavy rain, and flooding have caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure.

Mr Calman said, "The impact varied across the state, with flooding in some regions, but predominantly there has been wind damage to farm buildings, and trees falling over fencing. In some cases, farmers have experienced equipment damage and livestock losses"

"The next phase of recovery involves cleanup, rebuilding, tree removal, and fence repairs, which poses a significant financial burden for farmers, making this announcement significant.

“Farmers will feel a renewed confidence that their businesses are valued at both the state and federal levels, and they are being supported in returning to normal operations as quickly as possible. It’s a practical gesture that will be greatly appreciated by many primary producers.

“It’s important to recognise the bipartisan support shown as it demonstrates that the contributions of primary producers to the economy are universally valued and supported, regardless of politics.

“We welcome this funding, and we know that farmers, small business owners, and other organisations need support during tough times, so they can continue to support their communities in the good times”, Mr Calman said. 

With the federal election approaching, TasFarmers believes it is vital for both sides of politics to consider and address the needs of Tasmania’s agricultural sector. This includes continued drought-proofing through the South East Irrigation Scheme, necessary tax adjustments, and a review of the freight equalisation scheme—all important issues that warrant bipartisan attention.

Primary Producers can apply for grants through SmartyGrants at www.nre.tas.gov.au. For assistance with the application, please contact AgriGrowth Tasmania on 1300 292 292 or email farmpoint@nre.tas.au.