South Australian farmers and small business owners affected by drought now have access to additional state government support through grants designed to alleviate daily financial pressures.
The new initiative, part of a comprehensive $73 million Drought Support Package, was detailed in announcements made by Premier Peter Malinauskas and Clare Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development.
Eligible candidates can receive grants of up to $1,500, which are intended for immediate use to cover necessary expenses such as council rates, utility bills, medical costs, vehicle repairs, and school-related fees. This aid is distributed via the Rural Business Support (RBS) Relief Fund, a charity sector under the RBS, in an effort to reach rural communities swiftly and effectively.
Premier Peter Malinauskas emphasised the dual focus of the support measures, aiming both to provide immediate household relief and longer-term assistance to the state’s primary producers.
“This practical assistance ensures our rural communities aren’t faced with unpaid invoices, skipping medical appointments, giving up on school opportunities, or quietly going without,” he stated.
Clare Scriven highlighted the extension of these services to more drought-affected residents and small businesses, noting the importance of the Rural Financial Counselling service in providing relevant advice and support during these challenging times.
“Expanding these services means more South Australians can receive effective and practical support now,” she explained.
RBS CEO, Brett Smith, also reflected on the broader community impact of agricultural hardships. He outlined the ripple effects when farming families weaken, which includes the downturn in local business and a decrease in community volunteers, putting further strain on rural towns.
Smith elaborated on the efforts to provide stability to these families so they can focus on recovery, stating, “We’re grateful to the State Government for listening closely to farmers and rural communities.”
The magnitude of the drought’s impact led to the state government accelerating its response through a whole-of-government approach, which includes quadrupling the staff dedicated to processing On-farm Drought Infrastructure Grants. This move is expected to accelerate the roll-out of crucial infrastructure supports.
Farmers and small business owners seeking to apply for the Rural Support Grant can initiate contact by calling Rural Business Support or visiting their website. By integrating these services, the government and RBS aim to ensure sustained support is available to South Australia’s primary producers and rural communities.
These grants and services are part of a larger strategic initiative to not only address immediate financial shortcomings brought on by drought conditions but also foster long-term resilience within these areas of South Australia’s economy.
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