More drought-affected farmers will be able to apply for a $3000 payment to help pay bills under an $82 million boost to the federal government's relief efforts.
Farmers, workers, contractors and suppliers in more than 50 councils will be able to access grants from mid-to-late March through The Salvation Army or the St Vincent de Paul Society.
"The government is doing what it takes to support farming households through these extremely difficult financial and stressful times," Drought Minister David Littleproud said on Thursday.
The money extends a program that gives money through the charities to farmers struggling to pay for basic household expenses.
People in 52 councils will be eligible, with the local government areas that got an extra $1 million for local projects last month selected for the grants program.
As part of a separate scheme, the Country Women's Association and Rotary Australia World Community Service will get an extra $5 million to provide $500 vouchers to struggling households.
CWA and Rotary will also partner with the National Drought and Northern Queensland Flood Response to support community outreach activities.
Australian Associated Press
