Drought impacted farmers on Flinders Island will have access to relief after Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced grants will be available to support the region.

“While we no longer officially declare areas in drought, our regions are facing a serious situation,” Premier Jeremy Rockliff said.

“I’ve been on Flinders Island, I’ve met with local people, and I’ve heard and seen their concerns.

“It’s clear the situation on Flinders is serious and requires support.

“The Tasmanian Government will provide immediate assistance including payments of up to $20,000 to support farmers who can demonstrate hardship as a result of increased feed costs, freight costs, reduction in the value of livestock, recovery costs for pasture, restocking, and other expenditure that causes hardship as a result of this drought.

“I would like to assure affected islanders that we will continue to work closely with you and should you need additional assistance, we will provide that too.”

This support follows drought relief for the neighbouring King Island that the Premier announced last week.

“I recognise there are other areas around Tasmania facing extremely dry conditions, and we will continue to engage with farmers to understand their plight,” the Premier said.

Guidelines for the grants will be available on the Business Tasmania website.