Government roles in drought
Australia's changing climate is likely to cause more frequent, longer lasting, and intense droughts in many regions. To maintain our primary industries, governments, farmers, and communities need to plan ahead.
National Drought Agreement
South Australia has joined the Australian Government and other states and territories on the National Drought Agreement (NDA) 2024–2029.
The agreement outlines how we will work together to help farmers preparing for and managing drought, wherever they live. It encourages a consistent and collaborative approach to drought over 5 years by:
- Prioritising policies and programs that support long-term preparedness, sustainability and resilience of farm businesses and communities.
- Clarifying the roles and responsibilities of different jurisdictions.
- Recognising the contributions stakeholders make to drought policy and programs.
- Seeking to reduce gaps and duplication in program delivery.
- Promoting shared monitoring and reporting of progress against the agreement's goals.
Australian Government
The NDA specifies how the Australian Government works in partnership with states and territories to deliver drought, disaster and rural support to farmers.
The $5 billion Future Drought Fund (FDF) is part of the Australian Government's Drought Response, Resilience and Preparedness Plan. It provides secure funding to help farmers and communities prepare for the impacts of drought.
The Australian Government has a range of national programs that are always available to help farmers and regional communities deal with the impacts of drought, including the:
- Farm Household Allowance
- Farm Management Deposits
- Rural Financial Counselling Service.
See more funding and support information.
Government of South Australia
PIRSA is the Government of South Australia's lead agency for drought, with a key role in developing and delivering drought preparedness, response, and recovery programs.
Our programs for farmers and agricultural communities in South Australia align with the NDA, with a focus on:
- enabling preparedness and risk management
- providing support during drought
- facilitating recovery from drought.