Victoria Expands Drought Assistance

The Victorian Government has expanded its drought support package to more than $146.5 million, providing additional assistance to farmers and rural communities facing extended dry conditions.

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said the package would deliver practical help. “The expanded Drought Support Package means farmers will be better prepared over approaching months with assistance on water and feed budgeting, pasture re-establishment, cashflow, wellbeing and business planning,” she said.

A second round of one-on-one technical consultations through the Farm Advisory Service will be offered, while a new round of “Look Over the Farm Gate” wellbeing grants will open in February 2026. The Rural Financial Counselling Service’s wellbeing counsellor in the state’s south-west will also be extended until the end of 2026.

The Government has also committed $15 million towards the Mininera Pipeline, which will extend the East Grampians Rural Pipeline, securing water access for around 200 rural properties and 10 townships.

Financial capability services will be strengthened through a $677,000 grant to the Victorian Farmers Federation. VFF President Brett Hosking welcomed the assistance.

“Farmers across Victoria have accrued significant losses and will need all the support they can get as they rebuild their businesses," he said.

Small businesses in drought-affected regions will also benefit from a $600,000 support package co-funded by Bendigo Bank’s Community Enterprise Foundation. Bendigo Bank CEO Richard Fennell said the partnership would continue to back regional communities.

“We are pleased to support businesses and communities in drought-impacted areas of rural and regional Victoria," he said.