Drought Declaration to Deliver Critical Support for Southern Downs Producers

30 July 2026

Drought Declaration to Deliver Critical Support for Southern Downs Producers

 

Southern Downs Regional Council has welcomed the Queensland Government’s drought declaration for the Southern Downs region, which will unlock practical support for eligible primary producers impacted by prolonged dry conditions.

Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said the declaration will provide important assistance for farming families and rural businesses.

“This declaration acknowledges what our producers have been dealing with on the ground and ensures they can access support at a critical time,” Mayor Hamilton said.

“This outcome reflects a strong, coordinated effort between Council, the local drought committee and the Queensland Government to ensure the challenges faced by our agricultural sector are heard and understood.”

The Queensland Government has announced support measures for eligible primary producers, including:

• Emergency Drought Assistance Loan Scheme: interest-free loans of up to $50,000 for eligible landholders, and
• Drought Carry-on Finance Loan Scheme: interest-free loans of up to $250,000 for business carry-on expenses.
• Drought Relief from Electricity Charges Scheme: relief from supply charges on electricity accounts that are used to pump water for farm or irrigation purposes.
• Land Rent Rebates: eligible producers holding rural leases (Category 11 leases used for grazing and primary production) issued under Queensland’s Land Act 1994 will receive information with their annual/quarterly invoices.
• Water Licence Waivers: the annual water licence fee and the stock or domestic water licence application fee is being waived for producers.
• Transport-related Drought Assistance: various vehicle registration concessions, exemptions and waivers through the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Mayor Hamilton said Council would continue to support producers by helping them understand available assistance, eligibility requirements, grant opportunities and application processes.

“Council’s team is ready to help eligible producers navigate the support available and connect them with the right information,” she said.

Mayor Hamilton said the declaration also comes at an important time for the region’s tourism sector, with many producers also operating wineries, cellar doors, farm stays, food experiences, events and other agri-tourism businesses.

“One of the most practical ways people can support our farmers and regional communities is to visit the Southern Downs,” Mayor Hamilton said.

“Many of our producers are also part of our tourism story, and every visitor who books accommodation, enjoys a local meal, attends an event, visits a cellar door or buys local produce is helping support jobs, families and small businesses.

“There is no better time to experience the Southern Downs than during our crisp winter season. Visitors can enjoy the Historic Leyburn Sprints, the National Sheep Dog Trials, Romancing the Stones classic music event, country hospitality, local produce, and our rare varietal wines by a cosy woodfire.

“For visitors, the Southern Downs experience remains as rich and welcoming as ever. Our operators are doing what they need to do behind the scenes so guests can continue to enjoy the region.”

 

 

Resources and More Information

To find out more about Queensland Government drought assistance and Council support, visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/DroughtSupport

Current water use targets, dam levels, FAQs and water-saving information are available at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/environment-water-waste

For the latest Council news and information, download the My SDRC App, visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au.

• Phone: 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372)
• Email: mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au