Latest updates and advice
| The Western Australian (WA) Government has announced a $8.6 million funding package to support agricultural industries and rural communities impacted by the current drought conditions. Hardship Support Grants – applications now openWA farm businesses facing financial hardship due to drought conditions can apply for $5000 per primary production business to help cover the cost of stockfeed, water and transportation. Applications close on 30 June 2024 or when funding is fully committed (whichever occurs first). |
- Sheep Producers Australia, Cattle Australia, and Western Dairy have made the decision to extend the 2024 WA Seasonal and Market Conditions Producer Survey to inform the Dry Season Taskforce. The survey now closes Wednesday 8 May 2024.
- Livestock management has information to assist decision-making in challenging seasonal and industry conditions. Cattle producers and small landholders in the South West affected by dry season conditions are urged to regularly monitor their herds and take action early to ensure the condition and welfare of animals. See Southern beef - dry season management.
- If you think you are likely to become water deficient within the next 4 weeks, discuss your situation with your Local Government Authority (LGA), or contact the DWER rural water planning team on 1800 780 300, ruralwater@dwer.wa.gov.au or visit DWER’s Rural water planning webpage.
- For support services to help people in rural WA areas, find the assistance at WA's rural support services webpage and directory. Refer to Funding and support information which provides resources on grants and funding available to assist growers, pastoralists and industry experiencing hardship in challenging times.
- Pastoralists can refer to Dealing with a dry year in the southern rangelands of WA for information and management resources.
- The climate outlook for April to June has shifted to drier than normal for much of WA. See the Bureau’s seasonal outlook video for details and check monthly updates to the Seasonal Climate Outlook.
- Growers are encouraged to consider the timing of soil amelioration; it should be carried out when the soil is moist to reduce the risk of soil erosion. See Deep ripping for soil compaction and Tips for effective soil inversion.
Seasonal management information
Funding and support services
Information on support services is available to assist rural people of WA in stressful situations on the WA's rural support services webpage and directory, including Regional Men’s Health Initiative, Rural Aid, Lifeline, Beyond Blue and the Rural West financial counselling service.
For resources and information on grants and funding available to assist growers, pastoralists and industry experiencing hardship in challenging times, please refer to Funding and support information.
Contacts
| Region/area | Contact |
| South West & Great Southern | |
| Esperance | |
| Wheatbelt | |
| Gascoyne & Mid West | |
| Water | Richard George |
| Hardship Support Grants & Loans (business hours only) | RuralBusiness.DevelopmentUnit@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 9368 3082 |