The work undertaken by the DSAC will complement the drought pilot program looking at a new approach to drought assistance already under way in Western Australia.
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman said the State Government was closely watching the progress of the 2010 growing season and was committed to providing timely and accurate advice to growers and rural communities.
“While the South Coast and Esperance areas are looking good, much of the Wheatbelt has experienced a dry and patchy start to the season and pastoral areas have had consistently dry conditions,” Mr Redman said.
“Initial estimates indicate grain grower returns will be average to below average at best.
“The DSAC will ensure the impacts on growers can be identified and strategies can be recommended to help them make the right decisions on how best to deal with their circumstances.”
The DSAC committee will be chaired by Dexter Davies and include representatives from the Department of Agriculture and Food; WAFarmers; Pastoralists and Graziers Association; Rural, Regional and Remote Women’s Network; agricultural consultants; agri-business banking; local government; and financial counselling services.
Primarily the committee will gather and assess information as the 2010 season progresses to assist Government and other agencies, including the departments of Agriculture and Food, Water, Transport and Regional Development.
The Minister said the Department of Agriculture and Food was already working with the agribusiness sector in the northern and central agricultural region to ensure timely, tactical and relevant advice was provided to growers and communities through communications such as Agtactics.
“For example, projects developed by the North Eastern Agricultural Region strategy plan including yield prophet, are informing many growers to assist their decision making on sowing and fertiliser inputs,” he said.
Mr Redman said under the drought pilot program, WA farmers, families and communities had access to new measures including training, grants and social support.
The Dry Season Advisory Committee will meet for the first time on August 13.
Minister's office - 9213 6700