Tasmanian Government Media Release - 6 October 2009
The government has announced new measures to assist Tasmania's dairy farmers in tough times. The measures are aimed at providing community, social and business support as well as addressing animal welfare concerns.
The community and social package includes supporting a Farming Family Relief Program, the funding of a Rural Services Network Co-ordination position within the TFGA and Social and Community events funding to help maintain community resilience. Family counselling services will be boosted via funding from the Department of Health and Human Services. The business support package will support farmers' participation in the Taking Stock Program managed by Dairy Tasmania, a program enabling dairy farmers to obtain business quality advice.
As with the Exceptional Circumstances Drought Relief Program, eligible dairy farmers who qualify for Centrelink support will also be able to access one-off grants of up to $5,000 to facilitate on-ground practical measures to manage through the current wet conditions.
The Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research (TIAR) will expand extension services efforts to dairy farmers. Additionally, the Drought Recovery Assistance Loans Program will be reviewed with a view to adjusting eligibility criteria to allow access by dairy farmers.
Animal welfare in the current wet conditions is a matter of concern. TIAR will be promoting its animal welfare helpline to provide support and advice to the rural community. Further, a Veterinary Services Subsidy Program will be put in place to run over the next 8 weeks, allowing dairy farmers to obtain a 50% subsidy for accessing professional veterinary advice.
This package is a commitment of $465,000 over the next six months, along with the provision of significant in-kind services from State Government Departments, TIAR, and community groups such as the TFGA, Dairy Tas, and CWA. These strategies have been designed to support the dairy industry through the current downturn. They are responsive and relevant to the current circumstances facing the industry, as well as affordable in the current fiscal environment.