TOUGH conditions in many parts of Victoria are taking a toll on farmers and communities. While Australian farmers show remarkable resilience, knowing where to find the right support can make a real difference.
Dr Sara Hely, director of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption & Innovation Hub (Vic Hub), said that Australian farmers are renowned for continuing to produce food for the nation and globally – even in the face of extreme climate challenges.
"The Vic Hub's work is focused on engendering preparedness for, and resilience during, drought. In uncertain times such as now, understanding what resources are available to farmers is part of that," Dr Hely said.
She added that the Vic Hub, supported by the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund, has launched a comprehensive ‘2025 Dry Season & Seasonal Conditions Resources' section on its website, bringing together Federal, state and local support, including resources from Vic Hub's network of regional nodes.
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"This will help regional communities access timely and trusted information during dry times. The resources are designed to support planning, decision-making and wellbeing for farmers and their families."
Key resources include:
- On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Support Grants: support for on-farm upgrades to manage drought and build future resilience.
- Drought Support Services: up-to-date information on drought assistance, workshops, tools and services.
- Mental health and wellbeing support: a directory of health and wellbeing contacts across Victoria.
- Preparing your farm for dry conditions: tips, tools and information to improve drought resilience.
- Regional resources: practical workshops, podcasts, trial updates and local contacts tailored to South-West, North-West and Gippsland regions.
- Financial and business support: access to the Rural Financial Counselling Service, Regional Investment Corporation loans, Farm Household Allowance and Australian Taxation Office drought support.
"Having access to the right information and support is critical during challenging seasons. The Vic Hub is committed to connecting communities with the resources they need, whether it's for planning, on-farm decision-making or wellbeing," Dr Hely said.
"These tools, strategies and connections have been developed by the Hub, its partners and other organisations to help farmers and regional communities prepare for, manage and recover from drought."
For more information and to access these resources: https://tinyurl.com/4uxmpec9
