THE pressure is mounting on Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews to provide further support to those still struggling from major flash-flooding in the North-East late last year.
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Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds has followed through with a promise to write to Mr Andrews to unlock further funding available from the federal government to assist farmers and others in the Tarrawingee area.
The federal funding available must be triggered by a request from the state government which hasn't happened to date.
"I am concerned that there has been no specific assistance made available to primary producers under these arrangements," Senator Reynolds said in her letter to Mr Andrews.
"Primary producers in Wangaratta have been significantly affected, suffering extensive damage to farm infrastructure, crop losses and loss of income."
A state government spokesperson defended its level of support including the offer of on-farm drought infrastructure support grants of up to $5000 and emergency relief assistance payments.
“We recognise the significant impact the December flood had on many landholders in Northern Victoria," the spokesperson said.
"That’s why Agriculture Victoria has been on the ground from day one, supporting farmers and their communities recover.
“Our focus is on providing support for those recovering from flooding and dealing with drought or dry conditions, not on political point-scoring.”
Senator Reynolds was accompanied by Liberal Indi candidate Steve Martin on her visit to Tarrawingee last week.
"Tarrawingee and surrounds might not get the media coverage Townsville is right now, but that does not diminish their situation," Mr Martin said.
"I hope the state government plays their part, writes to the Prime Minister and or Senator Reynolds immediately, so the federal government can get support to our communities."
