Media release
Drought Bus visits South-Western Queensland
5 December 2007
Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig, has today encouraged farmers, small business owners and local residents to visit the Australian Government Drought Bus during its current tour of south-western Queensland to learn more about drought assistance and support services.
The Drought Bus will stop at Cooyar today, before continuing to Quinalow, Dalby, Jandowae, Condamine and Meandarra next week.
“The Australian Government is committed to supporting our nation's farmers and rural small businesses,” Senator Ludwig said.
“While recent rain falls across some parts of the country have provided some immediate relief, the prolonged effects of the drought are placing a great financial and emotional strain on farming communities. Farmers and small businesses need to understand that they aren't alone, and that help is available.
“The Drought Bus brings information about drought assistance payments and other support services directly to those who need it, making it easier for farmers and small business owners to access the help they need.”
Senator Ludwig said the specialist rural staff from Centrelink on the Drought Bus can provide information on a range of Exceptional Circumstances (EC) assistance, including
- The EC Relief Payment for farmers and small businesses
- The EC Interest Rate Subsidy for farmers and small businesses
- Professional advice and planning assistance
- Exit Grants of up to $150,000 for farmers who have decided to leave the land, with extra assistance of up to $20,000 for advice, retraining and relocation expenses
“A social worker is also travelling with the Drought Bus and can provide emotional support and counselling,” Senator Ludwig said.
“In addition to the Centrelink service, people can speak with Medicare staff when they visit the Drought Bus. The Medicare staff can assist families with non-cash transactions, such as paying Medicare claims by cheque or EFTPOS, enrolling people for Medicare, or updating their contact details.
The Australian Government's Drought Bus will be at:
| Town | Time | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooyar | 11.30am to 4pm | Thursday 6 December | behind Cooyar Hotel, cnr McDougall Street and New England Highway |
| Quinalow | 9.30am to 4.30pm | Friday 7 December | near the hall, Daly Street |
| Dalby | 9.30am to 4.30pm | Monday 10 December | Thomas Jack Park, near the Information Centrelink |
| Jandowae | 9.30am to 4.30pm | Tuesday 11 December | adjacent to the Community and Cultural Centre, cnr George and High Streets |
| Condamine | 9.30am to 4.30pm | Wednesday 12 December | Pioneer Park, Wambo Street |
| Meandarra | 9.30am to 1.30pm | Thursday 13 December | outside School of Arts, Sara Street |
Media Contact:
Tony Nagy — 02 6277 7200 or 0417 807 930.