- Queensland is prepared for drought with $10 million support in place for primary producers impacted by drought.
- Balonne, Goondiwindi, Southern Downs and part of Maranoa local government areas drought declared.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering better services through a stronger economy after the former Labor Government deserted regional Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering for drought declared primary producers, with parts of the State drought declared for the first time in two years.
The LGAs of Balonne, Goondiwindi, Southern Downs, and the southern part of Maranoa have been drought-declared, following prolonged periods of below-average rainfall in the State’s inland border regions.
To meet the drought declaration criteria, rainfall and pasture growth recorded in these regions over the past 12 months or longer has been well below average.
The Crisafulli Government has reinstated the Emergency Drought Assistance Loan Scheme and the Drought Carry-on Finance Loan Scheme for eligible primary producers.
The Emergency Drought Assistance Loan Scheme will provide interest-free loans of up to $50,000 for eligible landholders, while the Drought Carry-on Finance Loan Scheme will provide interest-free loans of up to $250,000 for business carry-on expenses. Loans can be accessed through QRIDA.
It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering better services through a stronger economy after the former Labor Government deserted rural and regional Queensland during their decade of decline.
The Crisafulli Government has set an ambitious target to increase the value of primary production to $30 billion by 2030 and supporting producers through times of disaster and drought helps the industry bounce back to profitability quicker.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the Crisafulli Government was committed to working closely with industry stakeholders to address challenges and provide meaningful support.
“As a grazier myself, I have firsthand knowledge and experience of the hardships faced by producers and their families during these difficult times,” Minister Perrett said.
“Queensland’s drought assistance model has evolved to better support all agricultural industries throughout the entire weather cycle, including drought preparedness, response, and recovery.
“Through these programs, we are equipping primary producers with the resources, tools, and support they need to build stronger, more resilient businesses for the future.”
“The Crisafulli Government has the backs of those living on the land, and reinstating these loan schemes is a key example of how we are delivering support to growers who provide our state and country with valuable food and fibre.”
