Drought taskforce representatives visit north west

Representatives from the federal government’s drought taskforce agency recently visited the north west district to meet with farmers, agricultural groups and local councils.

“The National Drought and North Queensland Flood Response and Recovery Agency works hand-in-hand with communities, all levels of government, charities and agricultural organisations to support farmers and other rural and regional Australians living through the immediate and longer-term effects of drought and flood,” said the coordinator-general for Drought and Flood, the Hon. Shane Stone AC QC.

Sandy McNaughton and Jennifer Jeffrey, the regional recovery officers for the northern and mid-NSW region, said they understood the drought and its varying impacts were far from over despite recent rainfall and potential for a good harvest this year.

The pair travelled to Narrabri, Burren Junction, Walgett and Lightning Ridge to listen to people’s concerns and to explain what support is available.

They said it was inspiring to hear about a range of stimulating projects and initiatives which reflected the adaptability of bush people during challenging times.

“Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently launched the Agency’s network of regional recovery officers who are in place around the country,” added Mr Stone.
“The regional team ensures that farmers, families, regional businesses and rural communities get the advice and support they need when seeking access to Australian government drought assistance measures.

“They also feed back to my agency current conditions on the ground to ensure the government understands the unique challenges being experienced in different regions across Australia.

“The Australian government has committed more than $10 billion for 26 separate drought measures to help people, small businesses and communities through current and future droughts,” he said.

“From January next year, RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) will also offer the AgriStarter loan of up to $2 million to assist in buying an existing farm business, undertaking succession arrangements or establishing a new farm business,” he added.