The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) welcomes the decision by the State Government and the municipalities of Wellington, East Gippsland and Mildura to support drought stricken farming businesses.
VFF President David Jochinke said the decision was an important win for farmers who have been campaigning for rate relief for drought affected farmers.
“Rate relief is a central pillar to VFF’s drought policy. This decision is a win for our members, organisation and for the farming community.”
“The VFF is the only organisation that has consistently called for local government rate relief to be made available to drought affected farmers.”
“Rate relief will free up much needed capital for farmers, allowing them to make the necessary preparations for what I hope will be a strong 2020/21 harvest.”
“Farmers have endured consecutive years of failed seasons, with many livestock producers destocking to ensure animal welfare standards are upheld, but also to retain topsoil in paddocks and maintain the best environmental outcomes across individual properties.”
“Despite times of hardship, our farmers have been stewards of the land and their animals, maintaining world’s best standards across their farms. Although the drought is not over, I hope that when the rain returns, farmers will see the rewards of their hard work over these trying times,” Mr Jochinke concluded.
Media Contacts:
David Jochinke, VFF President, 0427 834 524
Grady Powell, VFF Stakeholder Policy and Advocacy Manager, 0456 960 243