Farmers can apply for aid

FARMERS in South and West Gippsland can now apply to Centrelink for up to six months income support.
This follows the Federal Government’s announcement last week of interim Exceptional Circumstances (EC) assistance.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the declaration would provide farmers and farm-dependent small businesses with drought assistance.
“The lack of rain in South and West Gippsland has led to severe water shortages and a decline in pasture growth. The costs associated with supplementary feeding and water carting made necessary by these conditions has greatly reduced farm incomes,” Mr Wood said.
“An assessment has found that the region satisfies the criteria for interim EC assistance.”
He said farmers and small business operators with up to 100 employees and who derive at least 70 per cent of their income directly from agriculture could apply to Centrelink for six months EC income support.
Application forms for EC interim income support are available from local Centrelink offices or by calling 13 23 16.