Drought relief doubled
The NSW state government have announced an extra $284 million in the NSW Budget for 2018, bringing the entire drought relief package to over half a billion dollars.
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Almost all of NSW is now suffering from an extended dry period, which is expected to continue throughout the winter and potentially spring.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian was in Dubbo on Wednesday where she announced increased financial support, funding for mental health, key infrastructure including Doppler weather stations and streamlining kangaroo management.
“To date, the Farm Innovation Fund has delivered $220 million to more than 1300 farmers to help build on-farm infrastructure, and prepare for and battle drought,” she said.
“Our farmers are continuing to tell us that these loans are one of the best measures available, which is why we have decided to double the funding available, taking the fund’s total value to $500 million.”
DOPPLER RADAR PROGRAM
Deputy Premier Mr Barilaro said that more than $25 million has been allocated to construct and operate three new Doppler radar weather stations in the Central West and Far West – giving farmers more accurate weather forecasting.
“These new radars will deliver fast, accurate and live weather updates to help our farmers make timely business decisions about when to sow, harvest crops or move stock, boosting productivity and saving money,” Mr Barilaro said.
“We know that Western NSW has been crying out for accurate radar information for many years and in particular, I would like to acknowledge and thank Orana Regional Organisation of Councils, NSW Farmers and the Country Women’s Association for their ongoing advocacy for this critical infrastructure.
“The radars will provide real-time weather coverage for 30 per cent of the State.”