New Australian Government Drought Plan

The Australian Government has released a new Drought Plan aimed at guiding and explaining policies and programs for farming businesses and communities as they prepare for, manage through, and recover from drought. This plan is a significant step towards providing clear, coordinated, and collaborative support for those affected by drought conditions.

Key Features of the Drought Plan:

  • Clear Guidance: The plan offers a detailed explanation of what the government will and won’t do during droughts, ensuring that farmers have a clear understanding of available support.

  • Program Details: It outlines the various programs available to assist farmers before, during and after droughts, providing a comprehensive support framework.

  • Improved Coordination: The plan promotes better coordination of drought-related programs across Australian, state, and territory governments, aiming for a more unified approach.

  • collaborative Efforts: It seeks to work closely with farmers, their communities, the agriculture and finance sectors, and other government and non-government organisations to address drought challenges effectively.

The Drought Plan supports the National Drought Agreement (NDA) which was signed earlier this year between the Commonwealth, states, and territories. It explains how the Australian Government will meet its obligations under the agreement, covering measures for drought preparedness and support for farmers in hardship, regardless of when and where drought conditions occur.

This 5-year plan is a crucial tool in ensuring that farming communities are better equipped to handle the impacts of drought, providing them with the necessary resources and support to thrive even in challenging conditions.

Amanda Cappello