Drought Relief Funding Support

Published on 13 August 2025

Colac Otway Shire farmers will directly benefit from some further financial relief, following approval by Councillors to allocate State Government funding of over $2.8 million to support a credit on their rates notice.

The 40 per cent rate discount will apply to all rural farm rated properties as a credit on their rates notices.

Interim Chief Executive Officer Andrew Tenni said that it was a practical way to support the region’s agricultural community.

“By applying the funding as a credit, Council is reducing the financial burden on Colac Otway farmers and streamlining the process so farmers don’t need to apply separately.

“This is about making sure support reaches the people who need it most, without any unnecessary red tape,” Mr Tenni said.

Council will notify eligible ratepayers directly, with credits applied to 2025-26 Rates notices, which will soon be sent out.

The funding follows strong advocacy from Colac Otway Shire Council and other Western District Councils for State and Federal support for drought-affected farmers.

“The Colac Otway Mayor and Councillors have lobbied hard to government representatives to help farmers and communities impacted by drought.

“It’s another small but important step in recognising the challenges our farming community continues to face,” Mr Tenni said.

The funding package is a part of the Victorian Government’s Primary Producer Support Payment Program, part of the commitment to support primary producers facing financial pressures.

Questions on the rate relief package may be directed to Council’s Rates and Revenue team via inq@colacotway.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5232 9400.