Early rain in January and February eased the woes of some farmers, but not all and they want to make sure they’re not forgotten. They say the government’s response to #coronavirus could be used as inspiration for helping #drought-affected towns in future. #abc730 @martymccarthy1
“We are still #drought declared out here unfortunately. The rainfall here has been so narrow and so patchy. There are some people who have had great rain but there are a lot who have missed out” Amanda Button, Qld grazier. #abc730
Farmers worry talk of the #drought breaking and the #Covid19 crisis could distract the Federal Government from announcing a long-awaited National Drought Policy. @martymccarthy1 #abc730
Farmers want a coordinated strategy between the states and federal government - that would help them prepare for #drought in good years, and manage it better when it hits. @martymccarthy1 #abc730
“I’m absolutely terrified the government is going to think they can deal with #COVID19 and maintain the dialogue around that and not do anything about #drought.” Peter Mailler, farmer. #abc730
“#Drought hasn’t finished It normally takes 2 or 3 average years for farmers' cash flows to recover, but we will continue to work with them.” @D_LittleproudMP, Drought Minister. #abc730
“I think some of the stimulus rolled out for #COVID19 is interesting. Easy access to welfare support, as it has been provided through COVID19, hasn't been reflected in #drought policy in Australia.” Peter Mailler, farmer. #abc730
Since the election the Federal Government has spent more than $1 billion on #drought support with another $7 billion committed. Farmers have watched as the government has pledged to spend $320 billion in response to #coronavirus. @martymccarthy1 #abc730
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