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Changes needed to assist drought-affected farmersIndependent Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, says that changes are needed to the eligibility criteria for farmers applying for financial assistance under the Victorian Farm Business Support Package. By Latrobe Shire Council - 1st August 2003 - Back to News "I have received representation from a number of Gippsland farmers that have been refused assistance under the state’s drought assistance through the Rural Finance Corporation," Mr Ingram said.
"These farmers are disappointed with the fact that they could not meet the eligibility criteria to receive assistance.
"The criteria is more suitable for irrigation, dairy or cropping operations and therefore is almost impossible for Gippsland graziers to meet and needs to be reviewed.
"Many farmers in Gippsland have suffered 10 years of extremely difficult economic and environmental conditions.
"Conditions are still extremely dry through most areas of Gippsland.
"If these conditions continue, the area may continue to be recognised as a drought declared area, but those farmers most needing assistance will continue to be ineligible.
"I have called on the Minister for Agriculture and the Premier to review the criteria to ensure that those most impacted by the drought are assisted," Mr Ingram concluded.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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