PRIMARY PRODUCERS: 22 FEBRUARY 2017

Disaster assistance available for bushfire-affected farmers

Eligible primary producers affected by the recent devastating bushfires can now apply for assistance under the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

The assistance has been activated for the Kempsey, Mid Coast, Mid-Western Regional, Narrabri, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Upper Hunter, Queanbeyan-Palerang and Warrumbungle local government areas.

DPI’s State Emergency Coordinator Simon Oliver said the fires that ripped through the seven local government areas have been absolutely devastating.

“The fires have caused significant damage to farming equipment and infrastructure, dryland agriculture and rangeland grazing enterprises,” Mr Oliver said.

“It is estimated that at least 138 properties have been partially or totally impacted, with approximately 5700 km of fencing damaged and large numbers of dead or missing stock.

“This assistance will help affected farmers get back on their feet.”

Assistance for farmers under the NDRRA includes:

— Concessional interest rate loans of up to $130,000 are available for those in urgent need. These loans can be used for essential working capital replacement and repair of damage caused to the property and associated improvements. The repayment term is preceded by a two-year interest-and-repayment-free period.

— Freight subsidies for primary producers of up to 50 per cent of the cost of transporting fodder to an affected property and stock to and from agistment are available. The maximum subsidy available is $15,000 per annum.

To apply for a concessional loan or freight subsidy, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au

Primary producers needing assistance with emergency fodder, livestock assessment or emergency water should call 1800 814 647.

Based on media release issued by DPI.