The NSW Government’s Drought Relief Package, announced in 2018, included a special waiver for LLS rates for this year providing welcome relief for drought impacted rural and regional landholders. While rates are a vital source of income for LLS it is important at this time to provide full support to landholders who are focusing on getting back on their feet following one of the worst droughts on record.

Many landholders in the Bathurst electorate pay LLS rates each quarter and we hope this measure eases some of the burden our producers are feeling at the moment. LLS provides a vital service to our community and I know many landholders have found their service and help during these past 12 months invaluable.

The work of biosecurity officers and district vets is essential for the region’s agricultural industry and wider landscape health, particularly when the land itself is struggling to recover from drought.

The Rates Waiver will still mean that landholders will have access to the technical experts, training and programs to help them manage their land and meet legal obligations. Our work in supporting traceability systems such as the national livestock identification system means markets remain confident in our ‘clean and green’ reputation.

Additionally, the biosecurity and surveillance programs run by LLS limit and prevent the incursions of pests and diseases. The NSW Government is committed to being there for landholders when it matters. We know LLS teams across the state will continue to meet community expectations and deliver a comprehensive service to landholders at this really tough time.

Be fire ready

Australia is a diverse country when it comes to weather, shown in the contrasting systems we’ve been experiencing over the last few months. Floods up north and major fires down south have been devastating communities across the land.

While we have been lucky not to have experienced the same, we should remember to remain diligent in our awareness of emergency situations. I’d like to remind people to make sure they’ve prepared their homes for the remainder of the bushfire season, and know what to do if they’re affected by floods or storms.

Getting ready includes five simple steps:

1. Know your risk - think about the area you live in and the types of disasters that could affect you;

2. Plan now for what you will do - sit down and talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area;

3. Get your home ready - prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance;

4. Be aware - find out how to prepare and what to do if there is a disaster in your area; and,

5. Look out for each other - share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance.

Learn more about getting ready for these situations via www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/getready.