New Assistance Initiated for Drought-Stricken Farmers in South Australia

Synopsis

The South Australian government has committed significant funding to assist farmers and communities impacted by severe drought conditions, emphasizing infrastructure, financial, and mental health support. This initiative includes enhanced measures tailored to the needs of primary producers, reflecting ongoing concerns over water security in the region.

Key Takeaways

South Australian government pledges 55 million AUD for drought support.
New measures include infrastructure upgrades and counseling.
Previous support of 18 million AUD was announced in November.
Water reservoir levels in Adelaide are at 20-year lows.
Collaboration with local farmers guided the new assistance package.

Canberra, April 8 (NationPress) The government of South Australia (SA) has unveiled fresh support initiatives for communities and farmers grappling with extensive drought. Peter Malinauskas, the Premier of South Australia, on Tuesday pledged 55 million Australian dollars (equivalent to 33.1 million US dollars) in funding from the state government for various support measures including upgrades to infrastructure, financial counseling, and mental health resources.

Malinauskas mentioned in a statement that much of the state is currently under drought conditions, with some areas recording their lowest rainfall levels ever.

This new funding package builds upon 18 million Australian dollars (or 10.8 million dollars) in support measures that were introduced in November.

"When we launched our initial drought relief package in November, I made it clear that we would keep a close watch on the implementation of support and would act swiftly if necessary. Since then, the drought has worsened significantly," Malinauskas stated on Tuesday.

"While we cannot summon rain, we can take tangible steps to assist our farmers and equip them for future droughts," he added.

In March, farmers affected by the drought reached out for additional government support.

Malinauskas pointed out that the new assistance package was crafted in direct collaboration with the state’s primary producers, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Livestock SA, the leading organization representing the state’s livestock farmers, expressed gratitude for the financial assistance.

A report released by the South Australian Department for Environment and Water earlier this month cautioned that water levels in reservoirs in the state capital of Adelaide are at their lowest point in over 20 years due to arid conditions.

The water security report indicated that total reservoir levels throughout the city stand at 38 percent, a decline from 50 percent in 2024.

In January, the state government increased output from the Adelaide Desalination Plant to 300 million liters per day to help meet water demands and prevent the enforcement of water restrictions.