Vic Gov seem to be having a Drought "talk-fest"
- Future Accounting
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 13
We need more than a Drought Talk-Fest we need financial relief.
Australian Bureau of Meteorology: Summary for May 2025 - Rainfall
Following the second Drought Task-force meeting last Friday, Premier Allan made some initial announcements, acknowledging the growing shortage of feed and fodder in Victoria. She outlined three key actions the government plans to take to address the issue none of which provide financial support. In summary she proposed:
Streamlining feed and fodder movement from interstate by reducing the permit time from 10 days to 2 business days.
Establishing a new drought freight network for the southwest of the state to get bigger trucks closer to the farm gate, increasing the allowed freight tonnage by 15 tonnes for the trucks using the existing road network.
Kangaroo control:
fast track control permit approvals
offering some rebates to help manage this impact on pastures
So, right now, drought-stricken farmers are burning through their savings, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on hay and grain just to keep their livestock alive. Many are being forced to sell stock they can no longer afford to feed or water.
Farmers continue to call for real, immediate support, such as:
Fodder and water subsidies
Freight assistance to move stock or access agistment
These are not radical ideas; they are practical lifelines.
The Vic Farmers Federation (VFF) are on the panel and must keep representing our voice, conditions and what we need during this time, to have your say: COMPLETE THIS VFF SHORT SURVEY
Despite the recent rain over the long weekend, things remained very challenging, as this rain will not result in pasture growth throughout winter. While the government ticks boxes and holds a drought talk-fest, those on the ground continue to shoulder the financial burden unaided.
If you're doing it tough, please don’t go it alone. The National Centre for Farmer Health offers dedicated resources and support for Victorian farmers: https://farmerhealth.org.au/support-hub-victoria
Our team knows rural business inside and out, and we’d love to help you create a plan that works for your farm, your cash flow, and your goals.
Disclaimer
This article does not constitute financial advice and is for general information only. It does not take into account any individual’s personal objectives, situation or needs, and is not intended as professional advice. Any similarity to an individual’s personal circumstances and the examples provided in this article is purely coincidental. Any person acting upon such information without receiving specific advice, does so entirely at their own risk.
Authorisation under an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) is not required in the provision of this article and the author plus Future Accounting Group Pty Ltd is not acting in its capacity as an Australian Financial Services Licence holder
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