The Andrews Labor government is extending the Back to Work scheme, turning dairy farm household members into an eligible category of employees.
Employers will receive up to $5,000 when they hire someone from a farm household affected by the dairy crisis.
The Back to Work Scheme plans to create jobs and boost economic growth in Victoria by providing more support to the state’s dairy farmers.
“The Andrews Labor government will always stand behind our rural communities and we won’t let any farmer or community member go it alone,” said Treasurer Tim Pallas.
“Extending the Back to Work Scheme – which has helped employ more than 4,000 people across Victoria – to dairy farm households gives dairy farmers additional support during this difficult time.”
Late last year, the government amended the scheme to support drought-affected farm households, and has had a significant flow-on impact to these families, their self-esteem, and to the contribution they are now making to society.
The same plan is being extended to dairy farmers, that account for 85 per cent of Australia’s dairy product exports and approximately five per cent of the global dairy trade.
Employers will receive up to $5,000 when they hire someone from a farm household affected by the dairy crisis.