Drought funding announcement

The Barossa will be eligible for $1 million in drought funding as part of a $57 million support package announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

“Our Council has for many months been advocating for recognition of the impact of drought here in the Barossa, and we are tremendously pleased that this advocacy has resulted in today’s announcement of being eligible for $1 million Commonwealth funding for our community through the Drought Communities Programme extension,” said The Barossa Council Mayor Bim Lange.

“We are acutely aware of the dire impact of significant and sustained rainfall deficit on our community and particularly our agricultural and winegrape production. We know many areas across our district, region and the state are experiencing significant rainfall deficit including lowest rainfall on record. This is causing real hardship in many pockets of our community.”

Mayor Lange acknowledged the support from the Premier and the State. “I thank our Prime Minister and Minister Littleproud for their quick response to my submission and also for the support I received in my efforts to advocate for our community from the Premier, Minister Whetstone, and Member for Barker Tony Pasin,” he said.

“We will ensure this much-needed funding is directed to keep money flowing through and into the Barossa region. In partnership with community agencies and leaders, our efforts will focus on sustaining and creating jobs, boosting tourism and improving community wellbeing.”