Kiama MP Gareth Ward has penned a letter to local councils in the region, requesting they provide a ‘rate holiday’ for farmers on agricultural land effected by drought.
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“This week the state government announced a $500 million drought relief package which included loans, rate subsidies, reduced Local Land Services fees, as well as funding for mental health support,” Mr Ward said.
"This drought crisis requires all levels of government working together.
“A deferral of rates would help cash flow, which many farmers are struggling with as a result of the drought.”
Mr Ward said he wanted to continue eating local produce and the best way to achieve that was by supporting struggling farmers through the drought crisis.
“I don’t want to be eating foreign produce, I want to support our local farmers,” he said.
“We have some of the best farming land anywhere in Australia, part of which is in my electorate.”
A number of charities are working overtime to support farmers across the state, as the drought takes a grip on much of NSW.
"We're seeing lots of great work from charities, even GoFundMe pages being set up,” Mr Ward said.
“I think the overwhelming majority of ratepayers would have no issue supporting farmers during this incredibly difficult and challenging time."
