The Nationals WA have called for timely and efficient delivery of drought relief assistance to affected farm businesses across the agricultural region amid unprecedented dry conditions during the 2017 growing season.
Following the release of the Grains Industry of WA July crop report, The Nationals spokesperson for agriculture Hon Colin de Grussa MLC said patchy and below average rainfall across the grain belt was a major concern for the sector with many producers still awaiting meaningful rainfall.
“Below average rainfall across the agricultural region, particularly across the Geraldton and Kwinana zones has had a profound impact on germination and yield potential for grain growers and has severely impacted livestock producers,” Mr de Grussa said.
“Our State’s agricultural sector is vitally important to our economy and is often the backbone of regional communities. The Nationals will continue to work with industry to establish the best path forward following these sustained dry conditions.”
Mr de Grussa said he wrote to Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Alannah MacTiernan seeking clarity about the State Government’s strategy to assist drought affected farmers.
“The extent of the current drought being experienced across the grain production belt is a bipartisan issue and The Nationals are committed to ensuring affected farmers can remain viable through one of the worst seasons in recent history,” Mr de Grussa said.
“We will continue to work with all levels of Government to ensure growers are able to secure timely and accessible drought relief to assist farm businesses experiencing hardship.”
Mr de Grussa encouraged affected farmers seeking further information about available assistance programs to contact his Geraldton office on (08) 9921 4818.
