Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said he is pleased to announce the Government will provide $1m drought funding to four more drought-affected councils in Grey.
This brings the Government’s total investment under the Drought Communities Program to $110 million.
“During the election campaign we made a commitment that a re-elected Morrison Government would fund a further 15 localities under the program,” Mr Ramsey said.
“I am really pleased we have been able to extend this funding to four more councils in Grey- Outback Communities Authority, Adelaide Plains, Copper Coast and Port Pirie Regional Council which are in addition to the 15 councils which had already been announced.
“It had seemed unjust to me that some areas and in particular the outback of SA had just missed the cut-off point in earlier rounds and I had petitioned for further funding.
“The Federal Government recognises the impact of drought on the wider community and this assistance aims to stimulate the local economy and help local businesses to keep open their doors and retain employees until the rains return.
“The local projects already approved and underway in other localities are already making a considerable impact in their communities.
“I encourage these latest councils announced to put forward some good quality projects which will both help their communities and provide work for local contractors.”
Mr Ramsey said the Minister continue will continue to re-assess the program monthly as drought conditions change.
“The formula used by the department is the same as has been used in other states and is based on rainfall deficiency and percentage of people whose income is derived from agriculture,” he said.
“I believed we had councils not on the original list which were in need of assistance and it is really pleasing these additional councils have now been included.”
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 08 8633 1744
May 29, 2019
