By SONJA KOREMANS
LOCAL drought-striken farmers will soon be able share in a multi-million dollar relief package.
More than 70 per cent of Queensland is drought declared – from the Southern Downs to Mt Isa in the north west and Coolangatta in the south east.
The Federal Government this week announced a $333 million package that includes measures to boost regional economies, along with $250 million to continue concessional loans.
The Southern Downs was declared a drought-affected area in March last year. Its inclusion means local producers are eligible to access support from the package.
Federal LNP Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott said the funding was critical to create jobs and ensure drought-affected communities remained viable.
It would include $35 million on employment projects for people whose work opportunities have been adversely affected by drought.
“Twenty local government areas from Queensland and central and northern New South Wales will benefit from up to $1.5 million each over three years for infrastructure and employment projects,” Mr Scott said.
“Funding will be made available for pest management control, social and community support programmes and additional financial counsellors.“
The Commonwealth Government will also provide:
Nearly $26 million to manage feral animals and weeds, including rural contractors helping landowners
$20 million to expand social and community programs, including mental health support and nearly $2 million for more financial counsellors
Mr Scott said more drought relief measures would also be announced in the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper.
For information on the package, visit www.agriculture.gov.au/drought.
