Primary Producers SA has welcomed today’s announcement of a further $55 million in drought support for South Australian primary producers.
Among the measures announced are further funding for On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants, funding to assist charities with freight costs to transport donated fodder to assist farmers with feeding livestock, rebates for Emergency Services Levy and commercial vehicle registration fees for primary producers receiving the Commonwealth’s Farm Household Allowance, and more funding to further support regional small businesses.
There is also additional funding for mental health initiatives, regional sport and recreation clubs, regional events and more funding for Future Drought Fund preparedness and resilience initiatives.
PPSA Chair Professor Simon Maddocks said the State Government had listened to the concerns of primary industries and rural communities.
“Importantly, Premier Malinauskas has acknowledged that conditions have only gotten worse since the initial $18m support package was announced last year,” Professor Maddocks said.
“South Australia’s $18.5 billion primary industries and agribusiness sector is a vital engine of economic growth and a cornerstone of the state’s prosperity.
“These targeted measures will deliver much-needed, comprehensive support to farming families and rural communities, helping to ease the economic and social pressures caused by the prolonged drought affecting much of the state.
“We thank the government for listening and responding decisively at this critical time for the sector.”
“This package provides important support for primary producers currently facing significant challenges but also recognises the importance of small businesses in regional communities which may also need to be supported at this time.
“We look forward to continue working with government to ensure effective and timely delivery of these initiatives.”
The additional support package comes following a constructive meeting between PPSA, its commodity group members, Premier Malinauskas, Treasurer Stephen Mullighan and Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven last week. This was an opportunity to convey first-hand the impact of the ongoing situation and the urgent need for targeted support — including mental health services — to help producers and regional communities get through and recover from this drought event.
Professor Maddocks said the drought currently gripping most of SA was insidious and that PPSA would continue to monitor conditions and advocate strongly for producers.
“We strongly encourage producers to make every effort to access the support available through this package,” he said.
“PPSA will continue to work with government to support impacted producers and communities across the state.”
