Background Information
At the Primary Industries Ministerial Forum in Cairns on 29 February 2008, Ministers agreed that current approaches to drought and Exceptional Circumstances are no longer the most appropriate in the context of a changing climate. Drought policy needs to be improved to create an environment of self-reliance and preparedness, and encourage the adoption of appropriate climate change management practices.
The situation has changed in Australia since the previous review of drought policy was conducted in 2004. Many areas of the country are still experiencing drought conditions.
Reviewing and improving drought policy in parallel with the development of climate change policies and programs will put Australian farmers in the best possible position to meet the challenges of a changing climate.
The National Drought Policy 
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