More than 4,500 support payments have been processed to farmers impacted by the 2022/23 floods and storms, providing relief to primary producers across Victoria.
Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney today announced that $130 million in Primary Producer Flood Recovery and Rural Landholder grants had been claimed, with the initiative part of the broader Primary Producer Flood Recovery Package announced last October.
The grants have provided vital support for clean-up, relief and recovery costs for primary producers who suffered direct loss or damage as a result of the floods and storms.
Sheep producers Greg and Jo Bear received grants to combat weeds and build new fences after their pastures were severely impacted and five kilometres of fencing was lost or damaged.
Through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Albanese and Andrews Labor Governments were also able to provide mental health and wellbeing support to the National Centre for Farmer Health and the Rural Financial Counselling Service in the north east and north west of Victoria.
Financial support from the Primary Producer Flood Recovery Package will remain open until 4 pm on Thursday 13 July. More information is available on the Rural Finance website or by calling 1800 260 465.
For assistance in applying or understanding your eligibility, contact the Rural Financial Counselling Service on 1300 771 741.
Agriculture Victoria continues to provide technical advice and decision-making support to flood and storm affected farmers. More information is available on the Agriculture Victoria website or by calling the Agriculture Recovery Team on 0427 694 185.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney
“The floods and storms were one of the largest natural disasters that our agriculture sector has experienced for some time, impacting many farmers across the State. I’d encourage farmers whose businesses suffered loss or damage to check their eligibility and submit their application for support before applications close on 13 July.”
“The primary producer grants play an important part in supporting local economies and communities. Farmers and farming businesses are integral to local communities and recovery work by default generates economic activity in flood and storm impacted communities.”
