Exceptional Circumstances PM Announcement 16/10/06

Further to the Prime Ministers announcement, the Office of Federal Minister for Agriculture, Peter McGauran, has informed me that:

The announcement today applies to the Goulburn, Loddon and Campaspe statistical areas in Victoria.

The announcement of extension of EC status until 31/3/08 and it no longer being restricted to irrigated dairy farmers means that all primary producers in those areas will be eligible to apply for measures such as:

- Interest rate subsidies
- Income support

This includes orchardists and grape growers (in those areas) impacted by the severe frosts a few weeks ago.

North East (NE) Victoria was not included in this announcement as EC status in NE Victoria had already been extended to 31/3/07.

Further announcements are expected in a few days and I have stressed again to Mr McGauran’s office the impact of drought, frost and likely tobacco industry cessation to primary producers and communities in NE Victoria.

I am therefore hopeful that we will be advised in a few days of changes to the EC declaration in NE Victoria which will benefit all primary producers in NE Victoria.

I will continue to advocate strongly to both Federal and State Governments for support for all affected sections of our country communities.

Bill Sykes MP
Member for Benalla