Premier Jeremy Rockliff has announced relief is on the way for drought impacted King Islander farmers.
Visiting the Island along with his team of Liberals, the Premier said that he recognised that the Island was facing a very serious situation.
“There is no doubt that King Island is facing a serious drought situation, and I have heard first-hand from farmers just how bad things are,” Premier Rockliff said.
“While we no longer officially declare regions in drought anymore, it is clear King Island is in drought and immediate assistance is required.
“The Department of State Growth will also urgently liaise with the three shipping companies that operate to King Island to undertake extra sailings to the Island to deliver the critical feed needed for livestock, and to take stock off the Island for slaughter or agistment elsewhere.
“Additionally, we will convene an urgent roundtable of farmers, shippers and processors to ensure the processing of King Island cattle is prioritised.”
“My government will also provide immediate assistance including payments of up to $20,000 to support farmers who can demonstrate hardship as a result of increased feed costs, freight costs, reduction in the value of livestock, recovery costs for pasture, restocking, and other expenditure that causes hardship as a result of this drought.
“I would like to assure King Islanders, we will continue to work closely with you and should additional assistance be provided, we will provide that, too.”
