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Apply now or miss out on EC drought support

Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Media Release

Farmers and farm dependent small businesses in Exceptional Circumstances (EC) declared areas are being urged to submit applications for Interest Rate Subsidy (IRS) support before the end of March.

Applications for year five of IRS support in the EC area of the River Murray and Lower Lakes Corridor close on 31 March 2012.

Ian Heinrich, PIRSA Manager Prudential Rural and Financial Services, said those who were considering lodging an EC IRS application were encouraged to prepare their applications now.

“Interest rate subsidies provide much needed relief to eligible businesses that are experiencing financial hardship due to the impact of the drought,” Mr Heinrich said.

“I encourage farm and farm dependent small businesses experiencing financial hardship to make sure they submit their applications for the current year of EC IRS by 31 March and not miss out.

“There will be no written notification to individual businesses prior to the closing date.

“While weather conditions have been more favourable, farmers and businesses may still be experiencing financial difficulty due to drought.

“However, previous eligibility does not guarantee future support so it is important businesses provide up to date financial information with their application.

“It is important farm and farm dependent small businesses know that support is still available.”

The Rural Financial Counselling Service SA is available to assist people with the application process – contact toll free on 1800 836 211.

Further information:
Visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/pirsa/drought or phone PIRSA on 1800 182 235.