General News
12 December, 2022
Service team on ground
FARMERS across the Loddon are being supported in flood recovery and rebuilding with advice from Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria West. Rural and small business financial counsellors and wellbeing counsellors have been in Loddon...
FARMERS across the Loddon are being supported in flood recovery and rebuilding with advice from Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria West.
Rural and small business financial counsellors and wellbeing counsellors have been in Loddon communities working alongside farmers and small businesses since the October flood emergency.
Executive officer David Stafford said; ““We appreciate that it can be difficult during times of crisis to know when or how to reach out for help, or even if you qualify.
“First and foremost, I encourage people to avoid self-assessing their eligibility as you may miss out on valuable assistance - there are many communities impacted by floods right across Victoria,” he said.
Mr Stafford said local financial counsellors were having conversations no matter the level of impact.
“We’re here to help farmers and small business owners understand their entitlements, access grants and funding as well as link them and their family in with additional supports to ease their recovery journey,” he said.
“The impact of the ongoing flood crisis throughout Victoria will be felt by many communities well after the waters recede.”
The Federal and State Governments recently announced support measures for flood impacted business.
“The extent of the damage across the state means many communities are eligible for support. The flood grants are available now, with some grants continuing to be available for the next six months,” he said.
Mr Stafford also said mental health and wellbeing support continued to be available.
“At RFCS Victoria West, we have a team of qualified wellbeing counsellors available to ensure anyone eligible or currently working with a financial counsellor is fully supported.”