Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) President Brett Hosking has today unveiled a comprehensive and scalable drought response framework designed to deliver timely, targeted support to farmers and regional communities battling prolonged dry conditions.
“Our farmers are doing it tough. With rainfall in some regions falling below the tenth percentile for months on end, we need a clear plan that delivers help where and when it’s needed most,” Mr Hosking said.
The VFF’s framework, developed in consultation with Agriculture Victoria and submitted to the Victorian Government, reflects months of policy engagement with the Victorian Agriculture Minister. It outlines a three-tiered approach to drought support that is evidence-based and ready to implement. Measures include infrastructure and reseeding grants, municipal rate relief, water security initiatives, and dedicated mental health services. The model is built on empirical climate triggers to ensure support is equitable, transparent and responsive to escalating conditions.
It comes as VFF President Brett Hosking gets ready to meet directly with Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan to discuss the request this week.
“We’ve got the Premier’s ear and now it’s time to deliver for regional communities who are really struggling.”
“This isn’t just about handouts. This is about keeping rural communities on their feet, safeguarding food production, and making sure that no farming family feels like they have to go it alone,” Mr Hosking said.
The framework also urges the State Government to address longer-term strategic barriers, including the relaxation of pest control restrictions, improved freight access for fodder transport, and the fast-tracking of critical pipeline infrastructure projects.
“Drought doesn’t just affect paddocks. It affects people. That’s why our framework includes support for kids to keep playing sport, families to stay connected, and farmers to access the mental health care they need,” Mr Hosking said.
Mr Hosking welcomed recent public interest in supporting farmers and called for a whole-of-government approach involving state and federal leadership.
“We are also calling on the Victorian Premier, the Prime Minister, and both the State and Federal Agriculture Ministers to visit drought-affected communities in Victoria. It is vital that leaders see first-hand what these communities are experiencing in order to understand the challenges and identify how they can best support them.”
“We’re ready to work with all levels of government to implement this framework. With the right plan and the right partnerships, we can get through this together,” Mr Hosking said.