Image credit: Joshua Smith

Government delivers new drought support initiatives for resilient farming communities

Targeted wellbeing, financial and infrastructure assistance enables farmers to plan ahead

Collaborative funding ensures stronger support for rural regions and businesses

The Victorian Government is strengthening drought support for communities and farmers, expanding essential services and resources to help our agricultural sector stay resilient and overcome dry conditions.

Find 2025’s dry season & seasonal conditions resources

At the most recent Drought Response Taskforce meeting on 21 November, Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence announced a major extension of drought support, with the total package now exceeding $146.5 million. These expanded programs are connecting Victorian farmers to services that make a tangible difference.

“Reliable water supply gives farmers and communities the confidence to plan ahead, protect their businesses, and stay strong through dry conditions.” – Gayle Tierney, Minister for Water

Farmers will have access to a second Farm Advisory Service consultation, ensuring personalised, technical assistance. Looking ahead, a new round of funding for the Look Over the Farm Gate grants program opens in February 2026, administered by the National Centre for Farmer Health.

Wellbeing support for farmers continues to be a priority. The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) counsellor in the south-west will be extended through 2026, providing confidential advice alongside financial and business planning. More than 700 farmers have now participated in advisory consultations, and RFCS counsellors have supported over 100 farming businesses. Community events like Look Over the Farm Gate have brought together 13,000 people across rural Victoria.

Major infrastructure projects are also underway. Construction of the Mininera Pipeline, funded by $15m from the State Government and $15.6m from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, will extend water access to around 200 rural properties and 10 towns.

Learn about the four stages of drought

New support for local businesses is being delivered through a $600,000 package co-funded by Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Foundation and Regional Development Victoria, offering grants of up to $50,000 in eligible areas to drive community projects and boost local economic activity.

Bendigo Bank CEO Richard Fennell said, “With the guidance of our philanthropic arm, the Community Enterprise Foundation, we are pleased to partner with Regional Development Victoria and continue supporting businesses and communities in drought impacted areas of rural and regional Victoria.”

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) will receive $677,000 over two years, helping farmers maintain ownership of land and homes during drought. VFF President Brett Hosking, also Chairman of BCG, the North-West Node lead of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption & Innovation Hub, reflected on the ongoing challenge: “We know the financial impact of drought doesn’t end when it rains. Farmers across Victoria have accrued significant losses and will need all the support they can get as they rebuild their businesses. We thank the Government for this support.”

A broad coalition of government, financial, and community organisations are stepping up to help Victorian farmers build resilience and secure their futures. For the full range of support available, visit Vic Hub partner Agriculture Victoria drought support or phone 136 186.