Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders has backed a move by the NSW Government to waive Local Land Services (LLS) rates for 2021, as farmers across the region work towards drought recovery.
Mr Saunders said the region’s farmers have been doing it tough over the past three years, and while conditions have improved thanks to significant rain over the past few months, drought recovery does not happen overnight.
“Our area has had significant rainfalls as recently as the past few days and there’s no doubt optimism is high within the farming fraternity,” Mr Saunders said.
“But the fact is things had been so bad for so long that it will take time for our farmers to reap the benefits of the past year.
“The NSW Government stood side-by-side our primary producers through years of devastating drought, and we are just as committed to ensuring they bounce back stronger than ever.”
LLS ratepayers can expect their notices to arrive in the coming weeks, informing them that their rates have been waived for 2021.
Mr Saunders said this is the third year in a row the NSW Government has been able to support primary producers by waiving LLS rates.
“This is a $50 million investment across the State that will allow landholders to use the money they would have spent on rates elsewhere, but still access all the services offered by LLS,” he said.
“After years of severe drought, these decisions can give our region’s farmers an upper hand as they recover, so I encourage them to reach out to their local team.”
To find out more about available assistance measures and eligibility criteria, visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/climate-and-emergencies/droughthub or phone the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593.
For more information about the services offered by LLS, or to find your closest office, visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 795 299.