Media release (Victoria):
Help available for professional advice and planning
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
Centrelink Rural Services Officer, Geoff Jones, is reminding local farmers that support is available.
“There are a number of payments available to farmers who may be doing it tough,” Geoff said.
“For example, the Professional Advice and Planning Grant (PAPG) is available to farmers in Exceptional Circumstances (EC) declared areas.”
The grant provides eligible farm enterprises up to $5,500 to access professional business and financial advice to develop written business plans incorporating drought and risk management strategies.
“If you are eligible, the PAPG can assist you in planning to maintain or increase the productivity or profitability of your business,” Geoff said.
“It can also provide funding to help you prepare for or manage your business in times of drought or climate variability, and allow you to undertake an independent review of your farming business.
“Previous PAPG recipients can access an additional $2,200 to re-evaluate their plans after a minimum of 6 months – this may be particularly useful for those who have been affected by recent flooding.”
Geoff is encouraging farmers to test their eligibility for the grant as soon as possible.
“You must have applied for the grant by 12 June 2011 or prior to your EC area end date, whichever occurs first,” Geoff said.
“Professional Advice and Planning Grant funds need to be used by 30 June 2011, so the sooner you apply, the longer you will have to make use of the funds.”
Geoff said it is very important that people don't self assess their eligibility for assistance.
“Everybody’s situation is different, so I would strongly encourage farmers to discuss their individual circumstances with Centrelink,” Geoff said.
For more information or to make an appointment, call Geoff on 0419 890 185 or the Farm Assistance Hotline on 1800 050 585.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.