PUBLIC consultation is now open to help inform spending on drought resilience over the next four years.
The Future Drought Fund provides $100 million each year to help farmers and regional communities prepare for the impacts of drought.
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on a draft funding plan and investment strategy for 2024 to 2028, which will help inform new FDF programs from next year.
These documents were informed by stakeholder feedback to date, as well as the recent Productivity Commission’s inquiry report into the effectiveness of the fund.
Future Drought Fund assistant secretary Kim Farrant said drought was an enduring part of the Australian landscape and woven into our stories of life on the land.
“Preparedness is becoming even more important as our climate changes,” Ms Farrant said.
“It’s important that the work we do to prepare for future droughts is informed by engagement with those at the forefront of impacts caused by drought and climate change.
“The public consultation process will ensure everyone has an opportunity to put their views forward on how best to help Australian farmers and regional communities build resilience and prepare future climate risks.
“I encourage stakeholders to get involved to ensure we have the priorities right for drought resilience funding going forward.”
Feedback is sought online and public face-to-face events will be held across Australia.
The consultation process closes on December 6.
Submit feedback at haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/future-drought-fund.
