Drought-hit farmers in all local government areas of New England will be able to access one-off payments of $3,000 thanks to the Government’s Drought Community Support Initiative.

 

Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said the payments would provide immediate relief to some of the worst-hit farming families.

 

“Registrations are now open for drought-affected farmers, farm workers, contractors and suppliers,” Mr Joyce said.

 

“We know farmers in New England have been doing it tough because of the drought.”

 

“Eligible applicants may be entitled to a one-off payment of $3,000 through the Drought Community Support initiative.”

 

“This is on top of the Government’s suite of measures, including the Farm Household Allowance, to assist our farmers through the tough times.”

 

“Applicants need to be over 18 and live and work in one of the identified council areas.”

 

“This money can be used to cover day to day living costs such as groceries, vehicle maintenance, energy & utility bills, or health & medical expenses.”

 

“This assistance will be delivered in partnership with the St. Vincent de Paul society and the Salvation Army who have done an outstanding job supporting the New England community.”

 

Applications should be made as follows:

St Vincent de Paul Society

Liverpool Plains

Tamworth Region

 

Salvation Army:

Armidale Regional

Glen Innes Severn

Gwydir

Inverell

Tenterfield

Upper Hunter

Uralla

Walcha 

 

The charities contact details are:

 

St Vincent de Paul Society

Salvation Army

www.vinnies.org.au/droughthelp

Ph: 1300 846 643

www.salvationarmy.org.au/drought

Ph: 1300 551 030