NATIONALS' MP for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has launched a petition calling on the Victorian Government to formally recognise drought conditions in North East Victoria and provide urgently needed support to local farmers.
The petition calls for:
• a formal drought declaration for North East Victoria - particularly the Alpine, Mitchell, Strathbogie, Benalla, Campaspe, Greater Bendigo, Greater Shepparton, Mansfield and Wangaratta local government areas; and
• the immediate inclusion of the region in all relevant drought assistance programs.
Ms Cleeland said the decision to start the petition came after farmers in North East were overlooked in the government’s latest drought relief measures, "leaving our farming communities behind during one of the toughest seasons in recent memory”.
Latest Stories
“Farmers in our region are dealing with bare paddocks, empty dams, and skyrocketing costs to transport hay just to keep their livestock alive," she said.
“The pressure on saleyards and freight is immense, and morale is at a breaking point.
“This isn’t about asking for handouts...it's about ensuring farmers in our region are treated fairly and given the support they need to keep going.”
The petition is available to sign at: https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/drought-in-north-east-victoria
