Central West farming families will get help following an announcement on Sunday by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Federal Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack.
They announced additional drought support measures of $190 million including additional support for mental health services and community organisations.
Michael said immediate additional financial support was available to those who need it most. Also announced were further significant changes to the existing Farm Household Allowance scheme which will provide two lump sum supplementary payments worth up to $12,000 for eligible households. The Government is also changing the assets test to allow thousands more farmers to access support.
“I strongly urge farmers to seek help, to not self-assess, to make sure they find out what assistance they can be eligible for,” Michael said.
Big W in Parkes has joined up with Rural Aid by making up hampers for farming families. Rural Aid supplied a list of specific items available at Big W. The items are flagged in the shop with the Rural Aid sign and customers can choose to buy individual items or a whole hamper for a total of $165.75. The aim is to make up 100 hampers over the next 50 days, which will be distributed by the Country Women’s Association.