The petition comes shortly after the Victorian Government announced the guidelines for its On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants Program.
Up to $5000 is on offer for drought relief, however farmers must be in certain local government areas to be eligible.
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland started the petition, saying farmers in north-east and central Victoria have been overlooked.
“The Allan Labor Government’s recent drought support package completely excludes north-east Victoria, leaving our farming communities behind during one of the toughest seasons in recent memory,” she said.
“Farmers in our region are dealing with bare paddocks, empty dams and skyrocketing costs to transport hay just to keep their livestock alive.
“The pressure on saleyards and freight is immense and morale is at breaking point.”
Farmers from 13 LGAs are eligible for the grants program, while the $13.5 million drought support package announced in September will continue for 11 LGAs across south-west Victoria.
A spokesperson said the Victorian Government was investing in support for farmers.
“We continue to back farmers impacted by drought and dry conditions, with expanded support for farmers. We are also closely monitoring conditions across the state to ensure we’re offering tailored support to farmers when and where they need it,” the Victorian Government spokesperson said.
“We’re investing a further $15.9 million to help more farmers and communities over winter, expanding support to farmers in 13 more LGAs on top of those backed as part of the $13.5 million drought support package announced in September.
“This package brings the government’s direct drought support to $29.4 million, on top of the $10.2 million investment through the Future Drought Fund program, and $4.1 million for the Rural Financial Counselling Service.”
Mitchell, Strathbogie, Benalla, Campaspe, Greater Bendigo, Greater Shepparton, Alpine, Mansfield and Wangaratta LGAs are not included in the drought relief program.
Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the omission sent a disheartening message to farmers.
“We are hearing directly from our farmers — these are not just numbers or forecasts,” she said.
“These are real people making heartbreaking decisions about whether they can afford to keep going.
“We recognise and value the support being offered in mental health and business resilience, but without help to meet the basic needs of stock and soil, that support rings hollow for many.”
The petition requests that the Legislative Assembly declares the excluded north-east Victorian LGAs as drought-affected, ensuring support and funding opportunities are made available to farmers in these regions.
The petition can be found at https://tinyurl.com/k5sp7ym5
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