Farmers will receive free grain treatment under a new package to combat the mice plague.
The NSW Government has announced a $50 million package for households, local businesses and farmers to help combat the mice plague currently impacting regional NSW.
NSW Upper House MP, Sam Farraway said communities right across the Central West and Western NSW had done it tough off the back of drought, bushfires and floods. “This mice plague is devastating communities who are already suffering.
“I have received a lot of feedback from communities that we needed to act on this mice plague as this infestation runs deep through the community.”
Households will be able to apply for rebates of up to $500 and small businesses will be eligible to claim up to $1,000 through Service NSW.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro said these rebates would help small businesses and households meet the cost of purchasing baits, and grain treatment would be available for impacted farmers free of charge.
“We know the financial pressure this mice plague is putting on farmers and household budgets. We have heard the concerns and we are acting on them,” said the deputy premier.
“The NSW Government will establish grain treatment facilities at specified locations across rural and regional NSW for farmers to have their grain treated free of charge and we will provide rebates to small businesses and households through Service NSW to help meet the cost of buying bait.
“I am also forming an advisory committee to ensure everyone has access to expert advice, including the latest hot spots, health and food safety advice, information for vets and guidance for keeping children and animals safe.”
Other steps include a rapid move by the NSW Government to seek the necessary approvals for the use of bromadiolone in NSW and expanded workshops on the best eradication strategies. For more information go to www.nsw.gov.au/mice.