The Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund (GERF) and Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) have extended the closing date for the bushfire recovery fencing grants program.
More than 100 farmers have already received assistance under the program, which will now be open until Monday 8 June, unless the fund is fully subscribed prior.
GERF President John Mitchell said the extra time would give more farmers impacted by the summer’s bushfires the opportunity to apply.
“We want to ensure as many East Gippsland farmers as possible have the opportunity to apply.
“We’re also providing more time for the successful applicants to get the work done, with grants now not needing to be fully spent until 31 August,” Mr Mitchell said.
The VFF will continue to administer the $1.4 million fund through an online grants applications process.
VFF President David Jochinke said the organisation was committed to ensuring ongoing support for farmers through the partnership.
“The recovery process for farmers involved in Victoria’s bushfire crisis will continue long after the flames were extinguished. It’s important that partnerships such as this exist to help farmers get back on their feet.
“I would like to once again extend our thanks on behalf of the VFF and fire-affected farmers to the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund for their continued support”.
Farmers can access the online application form and review the criteria on the VFF website at https://bit.ly/3bRlY15 The Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund (GERF) is a charitable organisation providing emergency relief to Gippslanders who suffer loss to their property as a result of a bushfire, flood or storm event. Established in 1978, it is operated by a small group of local volunteers.
For more information about GERF, visit www.gerf.org.au or follow the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund on Facebook or Twitter.