Premier visits farmers in the South East, Drought Commissioner appointed
Friday 13 June 2025 Emergencies and recovery
Premier Peter Malinauskas and Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven are today visiting farmland in the South East to hear directly from farmers impacted by the drought.
The Malinauskas Government is supporting primary producers and regional communities through the $73 million Drought Support Package, which has been developed in direct consultation with farmers and industry representatives.
The State Government has also appointed Alex Zimmermann as the Commissioner for Drought Support in South Australia to assist with managing the drought response, including monitoring the progress of drought support and addressing any issues or barriers.
A former chief inspector with South Australian Police, Mr Zimmermann has also previously served to assist communities impacted but other disaster events.
More than 2,300 applications have been approved for the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program which provides grants up to $20,000 for projects that help manage drought conditions and strengthen preparedness.
The State Government has funded the transport costs of charities to deliver more than 6,000 tonnes of donated hay to over 700 farmers across South Australia, with more deliveries to come.
More than $240,000 in funding has been granted for events that encourage communities to come together, share experiences and reinforce the unity and strength of rural areas.
The package includes grants to cover council rates and other essential expenses and significant investment in mental health support