Australian Government Drought Assistance

The Australian Government is supporting drought affected farmers, rural communities and agriculture-dependent small businesses through income support, interest rate subsidies and free counselling.

These measures recognise the impact of severe drought on rural and regional communities, the environment and the broader Australian economy.

Anyone wishing to enquire about assistance should call the Drought Assistance Hotline on 13 23 16 or the Murray-Darling Basin Assistance and Referral Line on
1800 050 015.

Drought assistance

Information relating to Australian, state and territory government assistance measures, including support to local farm-workers under the Drought Force program and free financial, social and emotional counselling services.

Pilot of Drought Reform Measures in Western Australia

The Australian Government, in partnership with the Western Australian Government, is conducting a pilot of drought reform measures in part of Western Australia.

The pilot tests a package of measures developed in response to the national review of drought policy. The measures are designed to move from a crisis management approach to risk management. The aim is to better support farmers, their families and rural communities in preparing for future challenges, rather than waiting until they are in crisis to offer assistance.

The pilot was rolled out on the 1 July 2010 for a trial period of 12 months. On the 10 May 2011 the government announced that the trial period was to be extended for a further 12 months until the 30 June 2012. Also, as of the 1 July 2011, the pilot will now cover an expanded area including all of the south west region of Western Australia.

For more information visit the drought pilot website or call the Drought Assistance hotline on 13 23 16.

Exceptional Circumstances (EC)

Information relating to EC declared areas and prima facie declared areas, as well as the declaration processes, eligibility criteria and EC assistance deadlines.

National Review of Drought Policy

The Australian Government is conducting a comprehensive national review of drought policy through three separate assessments. The review will support the development of policies to help better prepare farmers and rural communities for a changing climate.

Media and publications

Expenditure and uptake figures for the Australian Government's drought assistance measures, media releases and fact sheets on drought issues, as well as relevant media contacts within the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.