Whilst I appreciate Mr Byrson’s support for primary producers during the current drought, I want to inform him and your readers that the State Government’s drought relief package for drought affected farmers is now more than $1 billion.

The package includes Drought Transport Subsidies of up to 50% of the full cost of transporting fodder, livestock to agistment, slaughter, sale and water for stock will be made available to eligible farmers.

Funding is also available to install key water infrastructure including troughs, underground pipes or water saving technology.

The drought relief funding is also being used for mental health services with 13 statewide co-ordinators to link rural people to any help they need.

As part of the package, $220 million has been allocated to establish the Farm Innovation Fund which to date has been used by more than 1,300 farmers to help battle the drought.

Almost all of NSW is now suffering from an extended dry period which is expected to continue throughout winter and potentially spring.

If anyone needs any further information, please do not hesitate to contact the electorate office on 6584 0977.

Leslie Williams MP

Member for Port Macquarie