Jamie Briggs MP

The Rudd Government has announced four areas in the electorate of Mayo will have their exceptional circumstances assistance cut after 31 March 2010.

 

After review by the Independent National Rural Advisory Council (NRAC), the Government received recommendation that due to improved conditions, the following areas should not have their assistance extended:

 

·         Central and Eastern Mount Lofty area (including Balhannah, Birdwood, Gumeracha, Lobethal, Oakbank, Summertown, Uraidla and Woodside)

·         Clare, Light and Barossa area (including Mount Pleasant and Williamstown)

·         Fleurieu Peninsula (including Carrickalinga, Meadows, Mount Barker, Mount Compass, Normanville, Port Elliot and Victor Harbor)

·         Kangaroo Island (including American River, Kingscote, Parndana and Penneshaw)

 

I am deeply concerned about the effect this decision may have on local farmers and the rural community. Whilst rain has been a welcome relief across the electorate for some, it doesn’t pay the bills and farmers and small business need on-going support.  

 

If farmers and members of the rural community are concerned about this decision, I would encourage them to please contact my office on 08 8398 5566. Farmers need help during times of difficult seasonal conditions and I am committed to ensuring they receive the necessary support to face these challenges.