Farmers have sought a revamp of drought response measures at the 2026 NSW Farmers Annual Conference, including incentives to enhance on-farm water and fodder storage.
The call to prioritise practical relief comes as almost half the state is predicted to be in drought by September, and farmers plan production outcomes with forecasts of El Nino weather patterns in mind.
NSW Farmers Grains Committee Chair Justin Everitt said members are not satisfied with the current framework – with many reporting more tangible assistance on the ground was necessary.
“Drought responses need to be practical with meaningful relief measures that support farmers manage and recover from drought, and prepare for the next one which is always just around the corner,” Mr Everitt said.
“Incentives for on-farm infrastructure improvements such as silos, livestock water infrastructure and containment areas, is one solution proposed.”
“Other ones include fixed cost fee relief for businesses such as the waiving of road usage charges for trucks and a federal and state government subsidy for shire rates.”
NSW Farmers will advocate that the NSW Government provide dollar-for-dollar matched drought assistance grants for drought-affected farming businesses for water infrastructure improvements, fodder purchases up to $15,000 and financial planning services.
“Fodder grants would be a far better drought support measure than a freight subsidy.”
Farmers are also keen for a return to formal drought declarations when there is sustained low rainfall (5 – 10 percent of historical records) over a sustained time period (6 – 12 months). “NSW Farmers will continue to advocate for practical drought measures that make sure that State and Federal government policy settings are fit-for-purpose, to ensure that farm businesses where can effectively respond and recover from drought – especially where those severe conditions are beyond what can be prepared for.”
Media Release: NSW Farmers
