❓ Question addresses government support for farmers experiencing a difficult season, and the Minister details a $5 million dry season assistance package and other investments in regional WA.
AnsweredQoN 681Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
RURAL COMMUNITIES — GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
As the minister knows, many of the state’s farmers are currently experiencing one of the worst seasons they have ever had. Can the minister please explain what is being done to support these farming families, communities and the state’s important agriculture industry during this tough time, including the measures that were announced today, and how much money, in total, has been invested in regional WA communities? Mr D.T. REDMAN
As the minister knows, many of the state’s farmers are currently experiencing one of the worst seasons they have ever had. Can the minister please explain what is being done to support these farming families, communities and the state’s important agriculture industry during this tough time, including the measures that were announced today, and how much money, in total, has been invested in regional WA communities? Mr D.T. REDMAN
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for Geraldton for his question. He, like many other members who represent rural areas, are often at the fore in the challenges that regional communities are currently facing in the agriculture areas in particular. We must also bear in mind that this situation reaches into the pastoral areas in the Pilbara and, of course, right down into the south west. We know that this season is bad. We have seen the data. We have listened to the experts. We have talked to farmers. We have heard constituents’ feedback to us. And, of course, I have also taken the time to regularly update the house on exactly where that is at—and cabinet pretty much on a weekly basis. Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Geraldton for his question. He, like many other members who represent rural areas, are often at the fore in the challenges that regional communities are currently facing in the agriculture areas in particular. We must also bear in mind that this situation reaches into the pastoral areas in the Pilbara and, of course, right down into the south west. We know that this season is bad. We have seen the data. We have listened to the experts. We have talked to farmers. We have heard constituents’ feedback to us. And, of course, I have also taken the time to regularly update the house on exactly where that is at—and cabinet pretty much on a weekly basis. Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
I thank the member for Geraldton for his question. He, like many other members who represent rural areas, are often at the fore in the challenges that regional communities are currently facing in the agriculture areas in particular. We must also bear in mind that this situation reaches into the pastoral areas in the Pilbara and, of course, right down into the south west. We know that this season is bad. We have seen the data. We have listened to the experts. We have talked to farmers. We have heard constituents’ feedback to us. And, of course, I have also taken the time to regularly update the house on exactly where that is at—and cabinet pretty much on a weekly basis. Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Geraldton for his question. He, like many other members who represent rural areas, are often at the fore in the challenges that regional communities are currently facing in the agriculture areas in particular. We must also bear in mind that this situation reaches into the pastoral areas in the Pilbara and, of course, right down into the south west. We know that this season is bad. We have seen the data. We have listened to the experts. We have talked to farmers. We have heard constituents’ feedback to us. And, of course, I have also taken the time to regularly update the house on exactly where that is at—and cabinet pretty much on a weekly basis. Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
I thank the member for Geraldton for his question. He, like many other members who represent rural areas, are often at the fore in the challenges that regional communities are currently facing in the agriculture areas in particular. We must also bear in mind that this situation reaches into the pastoral areas in the Pilbara and, of course, right down into the south west. We know that this season is bad. We have seen the data. We have listened to the experts. We have talked to farmers. We have heard constituents’ feedback to us. And, of course, I have also taken the time to regularly update the house on exactly where that is at—and cabinet pretty much on a weekly basis. Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
Earlier this afternoon the Premier and I were able to announce an additional $5 million in a dry season assistance package for communities in up to 100 drought-affected shires, which is a significant proportion of regional Western Australia. This is in response to the urgent and acute needs that are out there and is on top of the more than $396 million that has been invested through royalties for regions, the drought pilot, Wheatbelt men’s health and a range of government agencies in those same regions to strengthen and broaden the economic base. On top of that, the Premier has also said that all government services will be maintained in affected areas, small schools will remain open, school buses will continue to run and police, health and allied services will continue. This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
This package is based on the recommendations from the Dry Season Advisory Committee, which comprises representatives from WAFarmers, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, local government, bankers, rural counsellors, and rural women’s networks. These recommendations have come from the whole range of stakeholders that should appropriately advise and put their views to government as to how we should respond to those challenges. The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
The components of the package announced today include $2 million for community service grants, essentially into shires and community groups, but also to clubs, which can apply for up to $20 000 for community events. That recognises that we do not want people to feel that they are alone. We can organise community functions so that the community has the capacity to bring these groups together to give them the sense that they are not alone in this and there are others who are feeling the pressure; and of course government is right alongside them to assist them through that. There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $1 million for social support grants to a range of non-government organisations, such as Ag Care, Anglicare and a range of groups out there that have provided feedback to us—in some cases through members of Parliament—that their resources are tight considering the demands out there. There is up to $50 000 each for those groups to assist with the counselling role that they play. There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $1 million to go towards high-volume water tanks and a range of selected standpipes for fire emergency responses in particular, but also for domestic and stock use. One of the issues with these standpipes is the pace at which the water comes out. That is becoming problematic, so the water tanks will be for high-volume discharge such that people are not sitting there for a long time and if there is an emergency they are able to respond. There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $500 000 to assist small businesses. I did note that the member for Albany made a comment when the question was being asked. It is important to recognise that whilst the farming community is directly impacted, the carry-on influence of that goes out into these communities. The member is quite right in saying that small businesses in particular are significantly affected. There will be $1 500 vouchers available to small businesses for financial services, accountancy services and even some legal services to assist them implement survival strategies for these times. There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
There is also $200 000 towards rural financial counselling support. In essence, it is a federally funded program administered by the state. There are nine rural financial counsellors out there now. We have received specific feedback directly to me, to other members of Parliament and also the Dry Season Advisory Committee, that these counsellors are short staffed. That will deal with that very practical response to ensure that we have those appropriate services out there. The Premier has also taken the opportunity to direct agencies to respond about the things that respective agencies might do to bring forward minor works, maintenance projects and so on, to put a level of economic activity back into these communities and to make sure we do not pull services at these very acute times of need. A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
A directors general group has been set up to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The group will be chaired by Rob Delane, the Director General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and bring directors general from a range of agencies together to make sure we have a coordinated whole-of-government response. This response already complements $396 million invested in regional Western Australia, which includes the drought pilot and a range of measures to support communities, businesses and families. As it turns out, the response is very appropriate for the season that we are in. The Liberal–National government will stand alongside communities and families during this very difficult time.
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