Torbay calls for faster action on drought assistance

Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay has welcomed the Premier’s announcement of an $8 million drought assistance package on her visit to Bundarra today.
She also told farmers that the State application for Exceptional Circumstances (EC) status for Bundarra would be sent to the Commonwealth tomorrow.
Mr Torbay joined the Premier and Minister for Primary Industries Steve Whan for talks with local farmers at a Bundarra property on the toll of bushfires in the region and the current drought, the worst in the area since 1919.
“These new measures to extend the freight subsidy until next March and the drought support worker program until June are welcome,” he said.
“The meeting gave the Premier a clear idea of the impact of the drought and she was particularly touched by the pressure of the tough season on farming families.”
The MP said there was general agreement at today’s talks that that the EC criteria need urgent reform given Bundarra’s losing its status in March and having to wait until this month to make a new application.
“I have urged the Premier to raise it as a priority at the next COAG meeting,” he said “If the Bundarra basin, where the paddocks are as bare as boards, does not qualify for EC status then the whole program is a sham.”
Mr Torbay cancelled his planned meeting with Bundarra farmers tomorrow to discuss reforms to drought relief assistance because of the Premier’s visit.
“Farming communities need a commitment from the State and Federal governments to cut the red tape and bureaucratic barriers to accessing drought assistance,” he said. “The process should be reviewed and reformed so the assistance flows quickly to help rural communities at the time they need it most.
“If this is the outcome of the Premier’s visit to Bundarra, Cowra and other drought afflicted areas, it will be very worthwhile.”
At present Bundarra basin farmers receive a state freight subsidy from the state government. Through the federal EC program they would receive an interest subsidy on existing loans and CentreLink funding to assist with household expenses.
During her visit Kristina Keneally also visited the Bundarra township to announce a $12,705 grant to assist with the upgrade of the local School of Arts Hall.