Rural relief funding doubled

The Tasmanian Government has doubled the support available under the Rural Relief Fund and relaxed the criteria for applicants, meaning more people are eligible for assistance.

The fund will now offer grants of up to $5,000, increased from $2,500  in recognition of the ongoing pressures faced by some farmers and their households.

Primary Industries and Water Minister Jane Howlett said the extra support was in recognition of the extended impacts of dry and drought conditions experienced by many Tasmanian families and communities.

“Even with recent rains in some regions, we know that the extended dry conditions have had long-lasting impacts and especially on cost-of-living for families,” Ms Howlett said.

“In addition, the eligibility criteria to access grants has been expanded so that semi-commercial farmers (those who receive income from non-farm related activities) can also apply to Rural Business Tasmania to discuss their eligibility.”

The Seasonal Conditions Grant Schemes will end on August 31, but additional help is now available through the Rural Relief Fund. 

Rural Business Tasmania will contact recent grant recipients soon to let them know they can apply for a total of $5,000 in support.

Minister Howlett said they have listened carefully to calls from farmers’ advocacy group TasFarmers on the availability and prices of feed and fodder and the need to ensure positive animal welfare outcomes. 

Farmers and producers still have time to apply for the Tasmanian Government’s Seasonal Conditions hardship grants, with applications closing at the end of this week (August 31, 2024).

“Importantly, in addition to the Seasonal Conditions schemes there is a range of other support available, and we’ll continue to back our farmers and producers during these difficult times,” Minister Howlett said. 

Details on Rural Relief Fund applications can be found on Rural Business Tasmania website