Farming households across the Bundaberg Region are being encouraged to apply for up to $3,000 in drought support.
St Vincent de Paul Society National Council CEO, Toby oConnor said the Federal Government had recently announced that the St Vincent de Paul Society will distribute funds in the Bundaberg local government area.
The St Vincent De Paul Society and The Salvation Army are delivering the Drought Community Support Initiative Round 2, dividing the LGAs between them.
“Financial support is available now and Vinnies is ready to process applications,” Mr oConnor said.
“It’s as easy as jumping onto the Vinnies.org.au webpage or picking up the phone to our call centre.
“Eligible farmers, farm workers and farm suppliers, in specific LGAs, qualify for a payment of up to $3,000 to help meet basic household expenses.
“Your main source of income must come from agriculture or related activities and you must be over the age of 18 to apply.
“This is a simple process. You’ll need your driver’s licence, evidence to show where you live and proof that you’re experiencing financial hardship. You’ll need a current payslip if you’re an employee.
“With the drought continuing to bite, Vinnies has a team of experienced, empathetic staff in our national call centre taking calls and processing claims as quickly as possible,” Mr oConnor said.
Vinnies is distributing nationally a total of $60 million of government funding, during this current Round 2 of the Drought Community Support Initiative, which commenced in November 2019.
Current program guidelines and eligibility criteria are available here.
The Federal Government has listed specific Local Government Areas which are officially drought-declared.
A list of those LGAs serviced by the St Vincent de Paul Society are available here, as well as details about the payment or by calling 1300 846 643.
The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia consists of 60,000 members and volunteers who operate on the ground through over 1,000 conferences located in individual parishes across the country.
- Related stories: Bundaberg avocados a smashing success
