Additional drought assistance for eligible councils

The Drought Communities program has been extended with an additional $75 million in further support for drought-stricken communities.

Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government Dr John McVeigh said the fund would provide immediate and short-term support for farmers and regional communities doing it tough.

“We are providing an additional $75 million this financial year for eligible councils to address local needs,” Dr McVeigh said.

“This is a terrible drought affecting the livelihoods and wellbeing of our farmers and regional communities, particularly those in New South Wales and Queensland. This fund targets those most seriously impacted by the drought.”

The funding will deliver flexibility for councils to choose projects that will have the biggest impact. These can include:

  • Employing local contractors to undertake repairs and maintenance
  • Upgrading or building new community facilities
  • Holding events and undertaking drought-relief activities
  • Carting potable water into communities for drinking and bathing.

The additional funding for the program will initially offer $1 million in grants funding to 60 eligible drought affected councils to provide immediate and short-term support for their communities.

Councils will be invited to submit appropriate projects, which address local conditions and needs. The program will prioritise projects that use local businesses to the greatest degree possible.

More information about the Drought Communities Program is available here: http://regional.gov.au/regional/programs/drought-communities.aspx