Farmers’ rates reduction to lighten load

ELIGIBLE farming operations from around the state are expected to benefit from a forty per cent reduction on their property rates as part of the roll out of the Federal Government’s Primary Producer Support Payments program.

Farmers in the south west of the State have experienced the worst drought conditions for more than two years, impacting their livelihoods, households and local communities, with the rate reductions expected to deliver them a welcome amount of relief.

The payment is one of a suite of programs and services in the government’s $144 million Drought Support Package.

This package includes waivers of livestock duties and reductions in regulatory fees and charges across PrimeSafe, Dairy Food Safety Victoria (DFSV) and Agriculture Victoria for the next financial year.

These measures will deliver savings of more than $10 million for Victoria’s farmers and food producers.

Agriculture Victoria is partnering with food and safety regulators along with livestock compensation advisory committee chairs to deliver the support.

Over 2800 farmers have accessed the Farm Drought Support Grants and more than 490 farmers have utilised free decision-making consultations.

“We’re backing our farmers through this drought with immediate cash-flow relief, giving them the control to manage their budgets and meet their needs,” Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said.

“Reducing regulatory fees and waiving livestock duties will lower the cost of doing business for farmers and gives them one less thing to worry about.”

For more information on the Support Package, visit the Agriculture Victoria website.