November 29th, 2025Boosting support for farmers facing drought

The Victorian Government is boosting drought support for farmers and communities – expanding programs that connect Victorian farmers to essential services they need to stay resilient and overcome drought conditions.

At a recent Drought Response Taskforce meeting, Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence announced an extension of key drought programs, bringing the government’s Drought Support Package to more than $146.5 million.

Farmers from across the state will have access to a second Farm Advisory Service one-on-one consultation with a technical specialist. Community wellbeing support will continue with a new round of funding for the Look Over the Farm Gate grants program opening in February 2026, administered by the National Centre for Farmer Health.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) wellbeing counsellor in the south-west will be extended until 31 December 2026, offering free confidential wellbeing support alongside financial and business counselling – helping farmers stay strong and plan for the future.

Across Victoria, more than 100 Look Over the Farm Gate events have brought communities together, engaging around 13,000 people. So far, more than 700 farmers have participated in consultations through the Farm Advisory Service, and RFCS wellbeing counsellors have supported more than 100 farming businesses.