Former Queensland Farmers Federation CEO Ruth Wade and former AgForce Queensland CEO Charles Burke have been commissioned by the State Government to conduct a review of Queensland’s Drought Program.
The aim is to improve resilience and assistance for farmers in future droughts.
Speaking in Charleville on Monday, Agriculture Minister Mark Furner Queensland producers were very experienced with big droughts and big floods.
“However even the most resilient and well-prepared producer and their community can struggle in a crippling and prolonged long drought such as this one,” he said.
“Since the current drought started to impact in 2013, the Queensland Government has allocated over $670 million in assistance.
“We have always supported our farmers and I assure embattled rural families that our current Drought Assistance Package will continue for the duration of this drought.
“However, with drought foremost in people’s minds, right now is the best time to work with industry and the community to review government, industry and community actions through this drought and to consider and recommend improvements for coping in future.
“All too often reviews have been conducted well after droughts are over and lessons are forgotten.”
Mr Furner said Ms Wade and Mr Burke would identify potential improvements for future droughts in line with national drought policy.
“The panel will hold forums in six regional centres and will seek written submissions through the drought program review website throughout September and October 2018. Details on how to make submissions will be online from mid-September.
“I encourage community members to attend these forums to have their say on what’s needed in future and to submit their thoughts online for the panel to consider.”
The dates and locations for the regional workshops are yet to be confirmed.
The panel will report their recommendations to the State Government early next year.
