60 more farms to get emergency cash

The State Government has reallocated emergency funding to allow up to 60 more farm businesses to receive grants of $25,000.

This morning Agriculture and Food Minister Ken Baston said unspent funds from the $7.8 million State Assistance Package had been authorised for reallocation.

The move allows up to $1.5million in unspent funds to be reallocated to grants for farm businesses affected by difficult seasonal and market conditions.

Mr Baston said the package initially allowed for Financial Support Payments to 200 farm businesses on a first-in, first-funded basis.

“The State Government had already approved payments to 213 eligible broadacre farm businesses. We expect this to grow by the time the final assessments have been made,” he said.

“There has been steady demand for this component of the package as a result of recent tough years and the lack of rain during this season across widespread parts of the Wheatbelt.

“We can’t make it rain, but hopefully the funds will provide some support to farm families.”

All applications are assessed to ensure they meet eligibility requirements.

A portion of the applications have not been accepted because they don’t meet the criteria, the Minister said.