EXTENSION of the State Government’s drought zone declaration to all of Victoria was just the first step, according to farmers.
Victorian Farmers’ Federation president Brett Hosking said it represented a step in the right direction as Victoria endures crippling drought conditions across the state.
Last Friday’s announcement by Premier Jacinta Allan meant Loddon Shire becomes part of the drought area without a decision by government using weather data taken in Bendigo.
Mayor Dan Straub and councillors had been in talks with government agencies on the worsening dry conditions across the shire.
Over the past two weeks, a majority of the state received just 20 per cent or less of the average typical rainfall expected in May.  The latest reporting from the Bureau of Meteorology also indicates these conditions are likely to continue into June. 
The Government said these conditions had left paddocks and dams dry, with fodder prices doubled.
Farmers across the state are able to access grants of up to $5000 to support on-farm drought management improvements, in addition to financial counselling and mental health support.
Agriculture Victoria’s farm technical and decision-making support has also been made available state-wide, supporting farmers to manage the impacts of these increasingly drier condition.
Mr Hosking said: “Farmers are doing it tough and some are facing the worst drought conditions in living memory.
“This announcement offers a glimmer of hope and is recognition that the pressure we’ve applied is being heard,” he said. 
“It’s a step in the right direction, but plenty more remains to be done.”
The Government said further drought assistance announcements would be made.
Nationals’ senator Bridget McKenzie has called on the Federal Government to bring back interest-free loans for Victorian farmers through the Regional Investment Corporation. 
“The difficulty accessing fodder means Victorian farmers need this more generous loan product made available now,” Senator McKenzie said.