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Ministers signal welcome shift on drought aidThe Member for Eastern Victoria, Philip Davis, has welcomed that Australian governments are making progress towards changing the present policy framework for drought assistance for farmers. By Kevin Balshaw - 15th November 2008 - Back to News The Member for Eastern Victoria, Philip Davis, has welcomed that Australian governments are making progress towards changing the present policy framework for drought assistance for farmers.
Mr Davis said a new approach toward ensuring farmers are better prepared to cope with the impact of drought on their livelihood was evident in talks between the nation’s agriculture ministers at the Primary Industries Ministerial Forum Thursday.
He said a positive shift was under way from treating drought assistance as an emergency response to an emphasis on preparedness and adaptation.
Addressing State Parliament, Mr Davis said the policy shift reflected the impact of prolonged drought on rural Australia and the continuing adjustment taking place in the farm sector.
He cited Australian Bureau of Statistics figures showing the number of farms declined by 20,000 over the decade to 2006.
"It is important to note that the Australian agriculture ministers have reaffirmed that the current exceptional circumstances rules will not change for producers currently receiving assistance in declared areas," Mr Davis said.
"That is critical because it is clear the farming community is suffering and engaged in an enormous struggle at the moment because of the incessant dry times.
"The view of the ministers is one that was put strongly to them by the National Farmers’ Federation upon the recent release of the Productivity Commission report that recommended moving away from the exceptional circumstances arrangements.
"That involves a lines on maps approach, which is counterproductive in terms of equitable assistance being provided to struggling farmers. Importantly, it has an effect in the planning of primary producers."
Mr Davis said the Productivity Commission report found the policy objectives of current drought assistance programs are not focused on helping farmers improve self-reliance and preparedness, and are not helping with climate change management.
"It is also important to note the commission recommends that all farm households in hardship should have access to temporary income support that is designed for a range of adverse events, and it should reflect the community safety net standard.
"That is a meritorious recommendation coming from the report."
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: kevin.balshaw@parliament.vic.gov.au
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