Rain in NSW and Queensland boosts farmers confidence
The recent heavy rains in Queensland and NSW have boosted confidence and optimism amongst farmers in the two states. The rain has been above average in many areas and should be able to limit the impact of the drought across Australia. However, the southern areas of Australia are still in the midst of a drought with South Australia and certain regions of Victoria and Western Australia the most affected.
In fact, so high has the rainfall been in northern areas of Queensland that drought assistance packages provided by the Queensland Government have been cancelled in the shires of: Bowen, Whitsundays, Beaudesert and Burdekin. In spite of this, some farmers in these areas may still be eligible for funds.
Farmers unsure about their eligibility for drought assistance packages should contact the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.
