Centrelink to assist drought affected farmers

Centrelink will administer emergency income support to farmers hit by drought in areas of Queensland and Western Australian announced by the Prime Minister.

“We recognise that primary producers in these areas are doing it tough and this will make their circumstances more tolerable.

“The payments to eligible farmers will receive assistance for a six month period at the relevant rate of Newstart Allowance. Benefits will include Rent Assistance where applicable.”

In Queensland these are the local government areas of Chinchilla, Wambo, Jondaryan, Toowoomba, Pittsworth, Millmerran, Cambooya, Clifton, Warwick, Rosalie (west of the Great Dividing Range) and parts of Tara and Murilla shires.

In Western Australia the areas are South Jerramungup, South-East Ravensthorpe, Hyden/Kondinin and Nyabing/Kukerin.

“The emergency support is subject to the standard Exceptional Circumstances income and off-farm assets tests,” Mr Anthony said.

Mr Anthony said farmers should check their eligibility for assistance by phoning Centrelink on 1800 050 585.