On-farm drought infrastructure grants are now available as part of the State Government's drought support packages.

The program, managed by Rural Finance, makes available co-contribution grants of $5000 for all primary producers across the state.
Following farmer feedback, the program guidelines have been updated to now include pasture re-establishment and water carting – reflecting the wide-ranging pressures farmers are facing and ensuring support reaches where it's needed most.
Agriculture Victoria's technical decision-making services also are live and farmers across the state can access a free one-on-one consultation with a farm advisor to help make the difficult decisions they are facing, particularly due to fodder and water shortages.
Agriculture Victoria has engaged 60 consultancy businesses in Victoria, including more than 90 individual farm advisors, who will assist farmers to take action to develop a drought action management plan.
The Look Over The Farm Gate farmer mental health and wellbeing program also is now open,. The program, managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the Government, will provide grants of up to $5000 for community-led events that promote social connection and mental health awareness.
Other supports are also available including the Farm Household Allowance, and Regional Investment Corporation loans.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service offers free, confidential and independent financial information, options, decision-making support and referral services to farmers and small rural businesses who are in, or at risk of, financial hardship.
Ms Spence said the government had listened to what farmers were saying and tailoring support to their needs.
"It's so important that farmers and their families know they are not alone, which is why the Look Over the Farm Gate program gives them the opportunity to come together with their community and connect with their neighbours," she said.
Member for Eastern Victoria Melina Bath last week criticised the government in state parliament for failing to recognise farmers' desperate need for assistance.
She said dollar for dollar infrastructure grants were woefully insufficient.
Ms Bath said many Gippsland primary producers were battling mounting bills and limited or no feed or water.
"Victorian farmers and The Nationals are calling for fodder, agistment and water support.
"Our local Rural Financial Counselling Services are being inundated with farmers in mental and financial distress as drought conditions bite into every aspect of their life.
Leader of The Nationals and Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien said it was inexplicable Labor was making farmers wait for drought support.
"The Labor Government's only focus is the optics and not the outcomes for our farmers. How does it take over a month to allow farmers to apply?"
Farmers wanting more information about drought support should go to: Rural Finance via admin@ruralfinance.com.au or agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/drought-support