Farmers welcome disaster relief funding

Tasmania’s peak farming body, the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association, said disaster relief funding announced by the Federal and Tasmanian Governments today was welcome recognition of the challenges facing farmers affected by the bushfires.

Of particular relevance to farmers are so-called category C grants of up to $25,000 that can be used to help with cleaning up, debris removal, disposal of dead livestock and steps to ensure continuing production and viability.

Category C assistance does not compensate for income losses and is not intended to replace insurance.

“The Prime Minister and Premier announced they would be available to producers in the Sorell, Tasman and Glamorgan-Spring Bay local government areas.

However, TFGA chief executive Jan Davis said that the association was seeking to extend the geographical scope of those grants.

“We want that extended to the Central Highlands, Waratah-Wynyard and Circular Head areas, where there have also been fires,” Ms Davis said.

“These funds are vital to getting our farmers back on their feet. On farms, time is of the essence and these grants will give farmers the confidence to start on urgent works without having to worry about how they will be funded.

“Any farmers wanting to know more can contact the TFGA.”

Information on the range of assistance that is available can be found at the Disaster Assist website:
http://www.disasterassist.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx

Jan Davis http://www.tfga.com.au/