The Hon. Annabelle Cleeland, Nationals member for Euroa, Media Release, 16 May 2025
Farmers in North East Victoria have once again been left behind, with the Allan Labor Government’s latest drought funding announcement excluding our region entirely.
The $15.9 million package announced today offers only token support, capped at $5000 per grant, and with strict conditions that prevent farmers from using it for the most basic and urgent needs like purchasing feed and water.
While we support relief for all drought-affected farmers across the state, it defies belief that areas like Benalla, Strathbogie, and Campaspe — where rainfall deficiencies are as bad or worse than those receiving support — have been completely overlooked.
Our paddocks are bare, our dams are dry, and our farmers are at breaking point. Saleyards and freight networks are under enormous pressure, while hay is being trucked in at massive expense just to keep stock alive.
This is one of the most severe droughts our region has experienced in living memory, and yet the Allan Labor Government continues to ignore it.
Farmers in our region aren’t asking for handouts, they’re asking for a fair go. Every day without support is a day closer to lost stock, abandoned farms, and growing mental health trauma.
Labor must urgently expand this package and stop treating the farmers of North East Victoria as second-class citizens.
Related story: Backing farmers with more drought support: Spence
Thank you Annabella.
Yes! We are hurting as we struggle to keep our essential productive beef herd fed.
Traveling in the Polaris to check the last of the calving breeders I get covered in layers of fine dust ++.
I can still take a shower, but the poor livestock can only dream of feeling rain once again pelting down on their hides!
They just glare at me when I tell them Benalla District is not regarded as being drought effected yet.
Perhaps the word that is lacking is -RESPECT.
Respect for the farmers and their livestock that provide the tucker on our Aussie tables.