Media release (Victoria):
Help is available
Monday 20 December 2010
Centrelink Rural Services Officer, Chris Marshall, is reminding local farmers that support is available to them following the recent heavy rains in the Southern Mallee and Northern Wimmera regions.
"Unfortunately the recent rainfall means that the profit potential from the bumper grain and legume crops foreseen in October is now in doubt," Chris said.
"In some instances farmers may have recently advised Centrelink that they were expecting high income returns from the 2010-11 harvests, resulting in their payments being reduced or cancelled.
"Other farmers may have opted to let their Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment (ECRP) cancel due to the non return of their six monthly review form as they were anticipating a better seasonal return.
"What I'm hearing now is that the harvesters are getting bogged in paddocks, yield is being downgraded because of moisture effects and the hay has become mouldy – the future is uncertain.
"Farmers are now either reluctant or too busy to contact Centrelink to see if they can revise their estimate, but I want to let them know that ECRP is still available for those affected by the inclement weather."
Chris said it is very important that people don't self assess their eligibility for assistance.
"Many farmers will find it difficult to provide an estimate of their financial position prior to harvest being completed, but I would strongly encourage farmers to review their position and contact Centrelink to provide an estimate based on current circumstances.
"I will continue to work closely with rural communities to ensure they can access all the support and assistance they may be entitled to."
For more information or to make an appointment, call Chris on 0458 398 336 or the Rural Helpline on 13 2316.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.