Thursday, 4 October 2018
NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today welcomed the NSW Government’s latest move to make it easier for farmers and their families to access drought assistance by relaxing the gross off-farm asset test.
The MP said the current criteria is being lifted from a $1 million off-farm assets to $5 million, which means more farmers will now be eligible to access drought assistance.
“This change acknowledges the efforts of farmers who have diversified their assets, but understandably still need help during these tough times,” Mr Marshall said.
“I am pleased to be part of a Government that stands with our farmers and continues to assess its drought relief package to ensure we are delivering the right support at the right time.”
Mr Marshall said criteria for ‘new entrants’ have also been created within the drought assistance guidelines to support farmers who are new the industry.
“New entrants, including many young farmers, will now have greater access to Government assistance which will be particularly beneficial as they establish their businesses,” Mr Marshall said.
In addition to amending the access criteria, Mr Marshall said the Government is also making it easier for farmers to get help completing and submitting drought support applications, with Local Land Services (LLS) offices now providing this assistance.
“Farmers in the region can now call ahead and arrange to visit LLS offices in Armidale, Glen Innes, Inverell, Moree and Warialda for assistance with preparing and submitting their applications for drought support,” Insert MP said.
“In addition, the Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) is now open until 10 pm weeknights, allowing farmers who have been out in the paddocks all day a greater opportunity to seek support”.
“These changes will ensure farmers can access the support they need and receive their subsidy payments as quickly as possible.”
The NSW Government Emergency Drought Relief package provides more than $1 billion in drought relief measures, for more information visit www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au