Emergency fodder aids Western Queensland primary producers

A $5 million Emergency Fodder Support Package is now available to help Western Queensland primary producers in the grip of the current flood emergency.

Eligible farmers in the local government areas of Barcoo, Boulia, Bulloo, Diamantina, Longreach, Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, and Winton can apply for the assistance.

The Emergency Fodder Support Package is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Fodder can be used to sustain livestock and mitigate the impacts of flooding and loss of pasture in areas impacted by the record-breaking floods.

Where possible fodder will be delivered by road trains, and via helicopter to the worst impacted areas.

The Department of Primary Industries is working with Local Disaster Management Groups to ensure this emergency fodder is distributed around the clock.

Emergency fodder is critical to Queensland’s response and recovery efforts in the region and will address economic challenges and animal welfare and land management issues.

It is a proven way to reduce the loss of livestock, pasture, and protect our food security, and is just one of the ways the Australian and Queensland governments are working together for the benefit of our rural and regional communities.

Other support measures activated for western Queensland include concessional loans and personal hardship assistance, and funding for local councils’ counter disaster operations and the reconstruction of essential public assets.

Primary producers wishing to access the Emergency Fodder Support Package should contact their relevant local council to make arrangements for distribution.