The Queensland Government has announced a 12-month rent deferral will apply to eligible primary production lease, licence and permit holders in the Balonne, Goondiwindi and Southern Downs local government areas, and the southern part of Maranoa Regional Council, to provide financial relief while drought conditions persist.
The measure will support approximately 873 primary production tenures and defer around $1.09 million in annual rent payments.
Natural Resources and Mines Minister, Dale Last said the Government was committed to supporting regional and rural communities facing the impacts of ongoing drought.
“Primary producers are at the heart of many regional and rural communities, and we know drought places enormous pressure on farming families and businesses,” Minister Last said.
“That’s why the Crisafulli Government is stepping in with practical support by automatically deferring land rent payments for eligible leaseholders in drought-declared areas.
“After the former Labor Government spent a decade neglecting Queensland’s Primary Industries, we are delivering real relief.
“When regional Queensland succeeds, the entire state succeeds. That’s why we are ensuring producers can get on with the job supporting local economies and strengthening regional and rural communities.”
Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett said the decision would provide practical support to landholders doing it tough across Southern Queensland.
“Primary producers in the southern parts of the state have been dealing with significant pressures, and this decision recognises the very real impact those conditions are having on farming families and their businesses,” Minister Perrett said.
“Deferring land rent for eligible properties will provide some welcome breathing room and help keep more money in the pockets of producers when they need it most.
“The Crisafulli Government will continue to work with our primary producers to deliver practical support that assists them through challenging times.”
AgForce CEO, Niki Ford welcomed the decision to defer land rent for leaseholders.
“The recent drought declaration is the latest challenge for producers already dealing with the rising cost of fuel and fertiliser and the impact and potential costs of complying with the reformed EPBC Act,” Ms Ford said.
“Our farmers are responsible for their land management and contribute to domestic and global food security in an increasingly challenging environment with the effects of climate change, natural disasters and market and economic factors.
“Any assistance that empowers them to continue producing Australia’s food and fibre is a positive step.”
For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/state/rents/hardship-deferral.
