Wollongong Donation Supports Farmers

A donation from Wollongong City Council to the Australian Red Cross Drought Appeal will go towards supporting the health and wellbeing, and reduce financial pressures, of severely drought-affected farmers, farming families and their communities.

Council elected to provide the donation to support those struggling to meet everyday household expenses as well as enabling access to social, health and education activities.

“I know our community has thrown their support behind the Australian Red Cross Drought Appeal and other initiatives that acknowledge the challenges our country’s drought-affected farmers are facing,’’ Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“We felt it was important that Council take on a leadership role for our community and step forward and say to those doing it tough that ‘we’re with you’ and here is something to make things a little easier.’’

Australian Red Cross Director NSW/Act Jody Broun thanked the Wollongong community for their ongoing support of the appeal.

“This appeal is about providing support for drought affected communities as they manage day-to-day financial challenges for vital things like groceries, petrol, medical bills or school fees,’’ she said.

“Every dollar raised through this appeal will help farming families and their communities. We have a relationship with both the Country Women’s Association of NSW and Queensland Country Women’s Association who will ensure the financial assistance is distributed to those who need it most.’’

The Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Appeal has raised more than $6 million, to date. People can contribute to the appeal by calling 1800 RED CROSS or by donating in person at Commonwealth Bank branches. The appeal closes on Friday 31 August.

Council is also able to provide rate relief to drought affected farmers and families under our Debt Recovery & Hardship Assistance Policy. Under this Policy, rate payers can enter into a payment arrangement to pay outstanding rates and charges over a period of greater than 12 months, or be granted a moratorium up to 90 days for a group/area of ratepayers affected by a natural disaster or significant event.

For more information, you can contact Council’s Customer Service on (02) 4227 7111 or visit our website.

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