Services Australia general manager Hank Jongen said while torrential rain and flash flooding wreak havoc in some states, other parts of the country are drier than ever.
“From battling arid brown paddocks to struggling with stock, drought conditions are hitting farmers hard,” Mr Jongen said.
“You don’t need to be a mathematician to work out that no rain, plus no feed, equals no money.
“It’s not just the recent weather events — there can be lots of reasons why farmers may experience financial pressures.
“The good news is, there is support available.”
Whether it’s due to challenging seasons, illness or other difficulties, Services Australia’s Farm Household Allowance is designed to help farmers get back on track.
Eligible farmers may receive:
- A fortnightly payment between $715 and $1011, for up to four years in a 10-year period (the amount will depend on circumstances).
- A Farm Household Case Officer to help you improve your financial situation.
- An activity supplement of up to $10,000 to pay for professional advice, training, study or mental health support to help improve your financial position.
Mr Jongen said when you start getting the Farm Household Allowance, a dedicated Farm Household Case Officer will get in touch with you.
“They’ll guide and support you from the very beginning and will check in with you regularly while you continue to be on the payment,” he said.
Your case office will help you set up a Financial Improvement Agreement.
“The FIA is exactly what it sounds like — a plan to help you improve your financial position,” Mr Jongen said.
“It sets out the activities you must do while you get the allowance.”
One of the key supports available is the $10,000 activity supplement.
“This funding can be put towards a diverse range of activities such as business courses, regenerative agriculture training, drone and pilot’s licences, teaching credentials, diversifying , and establishing a farm stay business,” Mr Jongen said.
“The supplement allows you to think laterally about ways to improve your financial position in the short, medium and long-term.”
For more information, go to: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/farm-household-allowance
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