Agricultural Disaster Assistance welcomed: Coulton
10-January-2012
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton today encouraged producers in the Bogan and Lachlan Shires that were affected by a severe storm on 29 November 2011 to apply for State Government disaster assistance.
Arrangements have been made through the NSW Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) to declare 450,000 hectares an Agricultural Natural Disaster Zone. The assistance will come in the form of loans up to $130,000 at 2.67 per cent interest per annum, with a two year interest and repayment free period.
Mr Coulton said the storm that ripped through the area was severe and caused widespread damage to farm infrastructure and unharvested crops.
“It has been estimated by the NSW Government that the hailstorm caused more than $4 million damage to more than 30 properties,” Mr Coulton said.
“Several property owners in the affected area contacted my office to seek assistance. They had experienced quite extensive damage, particularly to infrastructure such as sheds and fences, while other producers had their entire crop wiped out.”
“This assistance will go a long way in getting things back in order on these properties and I encourage affected producers to contact the Rural Assistance Authority to apply for the assistance.”
The RAA can be contacted on toll-free on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au to clarify eligibility criteria, or any other issues relating to this assistance.