Moyne Shire Council Mayor, Karen Foster, has invited the Victorian Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Agriculture to visit the drought-stricken south-west region.
The Mayor said Moyne continues to experience record low rainfall, and the financial and emotional burden upon rural communities and economy is unprecedented.
“These are tough times for our people and livestock, and they need help urgently,” said Mayor Foster.
“The long-range rainfall forecast indicates below-average rainfall is likely to continue. Consequently, we must anticipate harder times ahead.”
Mayor Foster says she has invited Premier Jacinta Allan to personally witness the impacts of the drought on local farmers, primary producers and agricultural industries, retailers and community groups, and families.
“Many farmers are spending tens of thousands of dollars weekly on feed and water,” she said.
“Farmers are beginning to sell off their livestock to cover these costs, a heartbreaking and unsustainable practice that puts at risk our regional economy, our long-term food supply and the wellbeing of our communities.
“With the availability of water and fodder becoming scarce and more costly, Moyne Shire Council asks the Victorian State Government to co-ordinate emergency supply into the region from other parts of Victoria and interstate.”
Last month, the South Australian government increased its support for drought-affected farmers and communities by $55 million, reaching a total package of $73 million.
The Council is calling on the Victorian State Government to immediately match this funding support for its local farmers, who are experiencing the very same drought conditions.
“The Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund Levy legislation has added a significant and disproportionate burden to farmers in their hour of need. Moyne Shire Council reiterates its call upon the Victorian State Government to immediately suspend the introduction of the ESVF Levy
ahead of determining an equitable distribution model.”
“We ask that the Government consider repeating a scheme from the 2009/10 drought, which saw a 50% concession on general rates to eligible farmers. The Exceptional Circumstances Municipal Rates Subsidies scheme provided a significant gesture of support to those affected by the drought.”
The Council is also asking the Victorian State Government to dedicate all available mental health resource support to the south-west region.
“We want to explore further ways the Victorian State Government can support our region in its biggest crisis in generations, and work together on meeting the most pressing needs in our region,” said Mayor Foster.
