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Full Drought Assistance For Bass Coast FarmersFurther support is now available for Bass Coast farmers suffering from the effects of the drought. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 17th August 2007 - Back to News Bass Coast has received full Exceptional Circumstances classification, valid until 31 March 2009.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Neville Goodwin said the full classification was wonderful news for local farmers.
"This is certainly going to help our farmers, who are really feeling the effects of this drought," said Cr Goodwin.
"Although we received the Interim classification in March this year, this was only valid for 6 months.
"A lot of people, including local farmers, farmer organisations, politicians and council staff have been working very hard to get this full classification," continued Cr Goodwin.
"This means that farmers can get income support and interest rate subsidies through until 2009, which is a great result."
Council’s Economic Development Manager, Stephanie Symes said there are two areas of support are available.
"The first area is Income Support, which is asset and income means tested," explained Ms Symes.
"The eligibility for this is the same as under the Interim Exceptional Circumstances, so anyone already receiving this benefit will continue to do so.
"Farmers who have not already applied should contact the Centrelink Drought Assistance Hotline, on 13 23 16," continued Ms Symes.
Ms Symes said that small businesses employing up to 100 staff, and whose income is at least 70% dependent on supplying farm products or services to farmers, are also eligible for assistance.
"We’d certainly urge anyone who hasn’t taken advantage of this scheme to get in touch with Centrelink," said Ms Symes.
Full Exceptional Circumstances classification also means that Interest rate subsidies are now available.
"These subsidies were not available under the Interim classification," said Ms Symes.
"A 50% subsidy is available for 2006-07, which must be applied for before 9 August 2008.
"The 80% subsidy for 2006-07 must be applied for before 31 March 2009," continued Ms Symes.
"These subsidies are available through Rural Finance, so contact your accountant or the Rural Financial Counselling Service on 5662 9928."
"Farmers who qualify for Exceptional Circumstances through Centrelink are also eligible for a Council rates subsidy.
"So far only 13 farmers have applied to us for this subsidy, so I certainly encourage more people to phone Council on 1300 BCOAST (226 278) and apply," finished Ms Symes.
More information is also available from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, by visiting their website at www.daff.gov.au/droughtassist
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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