Press Release

Chairman of Dry Seasons Advisory Committee, Dexter Davies along with PGA President, Rob Gillam and WAFarmers President, Mike Norton believe that there are still producers in the drought affected areas who are not accessing the provisions for assistance of the Drought Pilot Scheme and the recently announced additional assistance package by the Premier.

We are concerned that some farmers are not engaging early enough on financial and personal health matters.

We urge farmers and pastoralists adversely impacted by current conditions to make contact with their primary source of advice, including bankers, farm advisers, accountants, rural financial counsellors and family counsellors and encourage rural communities to take advantage of the $5million Dry Season Assistance Package announced by the State Government which covers up to 100 drought-affected shires

Farmers and pastoralists also need to be aware of the Farm Family Support program available under the Commonwealth/State Government pilot of drought reform measures.  Farm Family Support provides eligible farming families who are facing hardship now with income support to help meet basic household needs.

It is essential that farmers do not self-assess and instead contact Centrelink on 13 23 16, where an officer can provide information and assistance and can also arrange a farm visit.

More information on managing the dry season and State Government support package can be accessed from the Department of Agriculture and Food website at www.agric.wa.gov.au