Federal Government extends TFES to fodder shipments to King Island

The Federal Government has expanded sea-freight assistance under the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme to charitable south-bound fodder shipments to King Island.

The announcement comes just weeks after the King Island Courier exclusively revealed that the Federal Government is reviewing the TFES.

The move will be made retrospective from May 1 this year and means that charity Need for Feed, who shipped hay to the drought-stricken Island earlier this year, will be entitled to claim back-claim assistance under the scheme.

The move is said to be in response to representations from the King Island Council, Labor Senator Anne Uquhart, and Need for Feed.

“I travel regularly to King Island and I have seen the difficulties the Island faces because of current dry weather conditions. I have worked with the mayor and the generous donors, Need for Feed, to make sure that King Island is getting the help it needs,” Senator Urquhart said.

“When we work together we get results, and I am proud that the Federal Government has offered this important assistance. I look forward to travelling to the Island again in the next week to get a further update on conditions.” 

Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, and Tasmanian Labor Senator Carol Brown, said that the ministerial direction will mean charities can ship fodder and goods to King Island farmers from mainland Australia, and receive TFES assistance. 

“This strong support will mean more food for animals on King Island, and more relief for farmers. The Australian Government recognises that Tasmania is the only state in Australia that is heavily dependent on inter-state sea transport links for its economic prosperity, which is why we provide financial assistance via TFES," Senator Brown said.

The move was welcomed by Need for Feed Chairman Graham Cockerell who particularly thanked Senator Urquhart for her representations on the issue.