Drought hardship loan applications open

FARMERS affected by long-term drought are being encouraged to apply for Regional Investment Corporation Drought Hardship Loans.

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Julie Collins, made the announcement last week.

RIC chief executive officer, John Howard, said the loans offer financial relief for eligible farmers impacted by the dry to manage throughout and recover.

“Drought adds significant financial pressure on farmers and their communities especially when conditions are severe and prolonged,” Mr Howard said.

“The Drought Hardship Loan is designed to keep farmers farming with nothing to pay in the first two years, interest accrues in this time to be paid later.

“Australian farmers who have been affected by long-term drought for at least two years and expect to be financially impacted by drought for at least the next 12 months may be eligible to borrow up to $250,000 at the current RIC variable interest rate of 5.18 per cent over a five-year loan term.

“The Drought Hardship Loan is used to pay for operating expenses, from wages and bills to

buying fodder, carting water and transporting livestock or produce, so farmers can keep going despite the drought conditions they may be facing.”

To apply, farm businesses need to demonstrate a financial need, have commercial debt, provide adequate security, and be able to repay the loan.

“Every day our RIC Agri Lending Specialists support farmers across Australia who are facing tough financial times,” said Mr Howard.

“Since start-up in 2018, we have been proud to deliver low-interest loans to more than 3,550 Australian farm businesses valued at over $3.76 billion, helping them prepare for and navigate the challenges of drought, natural disasters, first time farming and succession planning.

“This new loan expands the RIC loan support available, offering practical relief so farmers can improve their cash flow and make plans with greater certainty for the future.”

The Drought Hardship Loans complement existing RIC low-interest loans.

Eligibility criteria and applications details can be found at ric.gov.au/drought-hardship or by calling RIC on 1800 875 675.