The state government has announced a further $6.7 million of new programs to help dairy farmers get through the dairy crisis and improve the sector’s long term resilience.
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Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford said total support had been boosted from the original $4.5 million package, in line with community feedback.
Ms Pulford said the focus was firmly on improving support for young families, whilst offering retraining to those who wanted to leave the sector.
“Dairy farming is at the heart and soul of Victorian agriculture – and we want it to stay that way.” she said.
“We said that we would listen and consult with dairy farmers and their communities and we have."
The government will provide $1.8 million in Dairy Development Grants to assist farmers with their on-farm business, as well as a further $340,000 for Rural Financial Counselling Services.
Ms Pulford said the government knew the importance of investing in – and supporting – young farming families.
Education, TAFE subsidies and rural kindergarten grants were a key feature in the community package.
Additional elements to the funding package included:
- $1.4 million for dairy farming families to receive 15 hours of free kindergarten in the year before school.
- $1.5 million for camps, sports and excursions, so no child missed out.
- $750,000 for "Rural Skills Connect" employment program for farmers.
- $600,000 for targeted dairy technical support.
- $320,000 to extend Rural Financial Counselling services to small businesses.
- Support for retraining through the TAFE system.
The new money brings the Victorian dairy support package to $13.5 million, which includes mental health and well-being support, and on-farm business assistance.
The dairy industry had also contributed $5.2 million to support farmers.
Dairy farmers experiencing difficulties can check the support options available www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/dairysupport or by calling 136 186.
– Stock & Land
