More than 480 drought-affected local farmers have received a $700 pre-loaded debit card from Wellington Shire Council to assist with living expenses.
Council allocated $1 million from the 2019/20 budget as direct drought support for farmers and also the Wellington economy with recipients urged to spend the money locally.
There has been a steady uptake of applications for the card, with plenty more still available until the program closes on Thursday 31 October.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Alan Hall encouraged farmers to self-assess from the eligibility criteria and apply for a card.
“I encourage all farmers to have a look and see if they can benefit from this program, the criteria and the application process is very simple,” he said.
“To those who have already received their cards and spent the funds locally, thank-you for supporting our local business community who has also been doing it tough during the drought.
“The cards are valid until Tuesday 31 December, so there is plenty of time to spend the money and continue to support our local businesses.”
To check eligibility or to find further information about other support available visit www.wellington.vic.gov.au/droughtrelief or call Council on 1300 366 244.