The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the Victorian Government's expanded drought assistance package and the 12-month pause on Emergency Services Levy (ESL) increases for primary producers, describing the measures as a step in the right direction amid severe drought conditions across the state.
VFF President Brett Hosking acknowledged the announcement as a positive development but emphasized the need for further action. "Farmers are doing it tough, and some are facing the worst drought conditions in living memory," he said. "This announcement offers a glimmer of hope and is recognition that the pressure we've applied is being heard. It's a step in the right direction, but plenty more remains to be done."
Mr. Hosking thanked Premier Jacinta Allan, Treasurer Jaclyn Symes, and Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence for visiting affected regions and seeing the challenges firsthand. "You can't begin to understand the impact of this drought until you actually visit these areas in person," he said. "Their presence and this additional support are appreciated."
He also welcomed the decision to pause ESL increases, describing it as an opportunity to continue dialogue with the government. "Pausing the ESL increases for 12 months is the right call, but it doesn't change the underlying problem: this levy is an unfair cost shift onto farmers," Mr. Hosking said. "We'll use this extra time to continue making the case that it needs to be scrapped altogether, not simply paused."
The VFF continues to call for a long-term, transparent, and genuinely collaborative approach to drought and regional resilience. Mr. Hosking warned that government responses often come too late, only after community pressure mounts. "This latest package is welcome, but it will only make a difference if the support actually reaches those who need it most. The government needs to start listening earlier, not months down the track when frustration boils over," he said.
He stressed that drought recovery is a long-term process requiring sustained investment beyond short-term headlines. "Even if we get rain tomorrow, the financial and emotional scars of drought last for years," Mr. Hosking said. "We need enduring support, not one-off fixes."
For more information:
Victorian Farmers Federation
Tel: +61 1300 882 833
Email: [email protected]
www.vff.org.au