An additional $190 million in drought relief funding announced by the Federal Government is geared towards helping struggling farming families across the state.
An extra $12,000 has been added to the Farm Household Allowance Scheme (FHA) while the net asset threshold cap for payments has increased to $5 million, allowing access for more farmers.
An additional $5 million has also been put towards the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) which is guiding struggling landholders through the process needed to access assistance.
An emergency drought relief transport subsidy of up to 50% of the total freight cost is available to eligible primary producers to a maximum of $5 per kilometre (plus GST) to a maximum eligible distance of 1500 kilometres. There are categories for moving stock to and from adjustment, transport of water and fodder and transporting stock for sale or slaughter. The maximum amount available to under the program is $30,000.
Eligible communities can also apply for funds of up to $1 million for community-led initiatives that improve mental health and community resilience.
To read more and to access both online and manual versions of the forms please visit https://www.raa.nsw.gov.au/
Pictured is Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Parkes MP Mark Coulton and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack after announcing the additional funding at Trangie, NSW.