Media Release
(25k)18 September 2008
Milestone achievements for Drought Bus Program
A Government program designed to help struggling farmers has provided financial and emotional support to more than 20,000 Australians in drought stricken communities.
Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig, said less than two years after its inception, the Australian Government’s Drought Bus program has broken through some significant milestones.
“Since they began rolling out in November 2006, the Drought Buses have travelled over 100,000 kilometres through all states, offering payment information and support to more than 20,000 people,” Senator Ludwig said.
“What is particularly significant is that around 70 per cent of these people had never before approached Centrelink for any kind of assistance.”
“The drought has gone on far longer than anyone could have predicted, and many farming communities are still suffering a great deal of emotional and financial stress,” said Senator Ludwig.
“I’ve seen first-hand the tremendous efforts of Centrelink’s Social Workers and
Rural Service Officers who travel with the buses.”
“These dedicated officers live and work in these rural communities – they
understand what their neighbours are experiencing and consistently go ‘above
and beyond’ to help out.”
“Medicare Australia has also been travelling extensively with the buses, providing a range of non-cash services, and I’m pleased to say state agencies and community organisations have also been very supportive of the Drought Bus initiative.”
Senator Ludwig said the Drought Buses continue to be well received by the communities they serve.
“Recently the Drought Bus attended the AgQuip agricultural field days near Gunnedah. In one day alone, staff on the bus spoke to 165 people – a new daily record. Another 150 people approached Drought Bus staff for information and assistance during a servicing stop at Toowoomba,” he said.
“There’s also been a marked increase in customer numbers at Drought Bus servicing stops throughout the Riverina in the wake of the recent Exceptional Circumstances extension announcements.”
“Staff regularly receive positive feedback about this mobile service, with many customers saying it’s only because of the drought buses they’ve been able to get assistance.”
“The program demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to serving the people of Australia, no matter where they live.”
Media Contact
Sarah Cosson — 0423 823 843
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