Home Media Releases RENMARK PARINGA INCLUDED IN LIBERAL DROUGHT PLAN

RENMARK PARINGA INCLUDED IN LIBERAL DROUGHT PLAN

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Released 01/05/2019

The Morrison Government has been steadfast in their commitment to support farmers, their families and communities living with the consequences of drought, says Member for Barker Tony Pasin.

The Government has made drought a national priority, delivering over $6.3 billion in ongoing, immediate household assistance and providing longer term support to build resilience and strengthen preparedness against future droughts.

As part of the Morrison Government’s plan to continue to support farmers and their communities in drought, Mr Pasin said the Drought Communities Program would be extended to include Renmark Paringa Council.

“Loxton Waikerie, Mid-Murray, Murray Bridge, Berri Barmera, Karoonda East Murray and Southern Mallee local Governments have already received $1 million for local infrastructure projects and other drought-relief activities under the Drought Communities Program. Our Government plans to extend the program to an additional 14 councils around the nation, including Renmark Paringa,” Mr Pasin said.

Our plan also includes:

  • Boosting drought preparedness and resilience through the Future Drought Fund. $3.9 billion will be invested, growing to $5 million and providing $100 million each and every year forever to help farmers and regional communities to prepare for and respond to the impacts of drought,” Mr Pasin said.
  • Ensuring the Farm Household Allowance is fit for purpose, including progressing the FHA Review recommendations and making the $5 million farm assets test for Farm Household Allowance permanent.
  • Establishing a new restocking and replanting concessional loan product through the Regional Investment Corporation with a two year interest free no interest accrual period.
  • Establishing a new $7 million Drought Communities Small Business Support Program providing rural financial counselling services to small businesses in regional communities.

“We know that when our farmers prosper, our regional communities thrive. Our strong economic management and our genuine commitment to back our agricultural industries means we can invest in our farmers and our farming communities including here in Barker,” Mr Pasin said.

Media Contact: Charlotte Edmunds 8531 2466