A new Drought Transport Fund announced last week by the NSW Government will help farmers manage livestock through dry
conditions. The NSW Drought Transport Fund will provide up to $20,000 in low interest loans, with a two-year interest and repayment free period.
Minister for Primary Industries, Niall Blair said the fund would help eligible farmers pay freight costs for fodder, water, or to move stock to agistment. Mr Blair said these costs have provided significant challenges for a number of producers who are trying to manage their property during these difficult conditions.
“Farmers have told us they need this help and the NSW Government has heard them loud and clear,” Mr Blair said. “We know that more than a third of the state is struggling with drought or conditions approaching drought. My colleagues, including the Member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen have expressed particular concern for the Hunter, Central Tablelands, Central West and in the Far West of the state.”
“Primary production is the lifeblood of the communities in these regions and when farmers are struggling, the whole community feels the impact. This additional step in our drought strategy will allow farmers to better manage core breeding stock, which will in turn enable a more rapid recovery when conditions improve.”
The NSW Drought Transport Fund will complement existing transport subsidies for the cost of transporting donated fodder within NSW and transporting stock off a property for animal welfare purposes.
More information on the NSW Drought Transport Fund and application details are available from www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au.