Farmers in North East Victoria have once again been left behind, with the Allan Labor Government’s latest drought funding announcement excluding our region entirely.
The $15.9 million package announced today offers only token support, capped at $5000 per grant, and with strict conditions that prevent farmers from using it for the most basic and urgent needs like purchasing feed and water.
While we support relief for all drought-affected farmers across the state, it defies belief that areas like Benalla, Strathbogie, and Campaspe — where rainfall deficiencies are as bad or worse than those receiving support — have been completely overlooked.
Our paddocks are bare, our dams are dry, and our farmers are at breaking point. Saleyards and freight networks are under enormous pressure, while hay is being trucked in at massive expense just to keep stock alive.
This is one of the most severe droughts our region has experienced in living memory, and yet the Allan Labor Government continues to ignore it.
Farmers in our region aren’t asking for handouts, they’re asking for a fair go. Every day without support is a day closer to lost stock, abandoned farms, and growing mental health trauma.
Labor must urgently expand this package and stop treating the farmers of North East Victoria as second-class citizens.