Media Release
Centrelink helping farmers through the Drought
25 October 2006
Minister for Human Services, The Hon. Joe Hockey MP, said Centrelink's dedicated rural staff are standing by to provide support and assistance to farming families affected by the drought.
"The Australian Government understands that many farming communities are doing it tough." Minister Hockey said.
"Centrelink is an integral part of rural communities, and staff at the Drought Assistance Hotline and Centrelink offices across the country are ready and waiting to help.
"Centrelink has established a network of Rural Service Officers who can connect farmers with Centrelink services. These officers play an important role in responding to the impact of the drought in rural communities."
Minister Hockey said the extended drought assistance package will provide farmers in Exceptional Circumstance-declared areas with greater access to financial and social support.
"Information on the new advice and planning package, announced yesterday by the Government, is available through Centrelink," Minister Hockey said.
"If farmers have been in an area that's been declared to be in Exceptional Circumstances for more than three years, they may be eligible for professional advice and planning assistance worth $5,500 (including GST). Income support payments are also available. The Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment helps farmers in affected areas meet family and personal living expenses. These payments are made fortnightly, at the same rate as the Newstart Allowance."
"Farming families can also access Centrelink's Financial Information Service officers, Health Care Cards, and further support through its network of social workers," he said.
"Referrals to community support and assistance agencies are also available."
"I strongly urge farmers in EC-declared areas not to self-assess their eligibility for assistance. Contact Centrelink's specialist rural staff at the Drought Assistance Hotline on 13 2316 and find out how Centrelink and the Australian Government can help."