NSW Department of Primary Industries

Help available to bushfire affected farmers and landholders

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20 Oct 2023

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Local Land Services (LLS) have activated the Agricultural and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA) in the Kempsey area to support bushfire-affected farmers and land managers manage animal welfare related issues during the ongoing bush fire emergency.

Assistance available for farmers includes:

  • Emergency fodder
  • Emergency stock water (where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
  • Animal assessment and veterinary assistance
  • Stock euthanasia and burial
  • Livestock feeding and management advice
  • Care of animals including pets and companion animals in evacuation centres.

AASFA Incident Controller, Nichole Priest said AASFA are working with the RFS on various matters including safe access to any impacted location.

“In Kempsey, we have so far received 65 requests for assistance which we are urgently processing,” Ms Priest said.

“Requests for fodder are assessed based on animal welfare needs and compassion is shown for all circumstances.

“We encourage landholders with animal welfare related issues to contact the Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647 to access support.

Primary producers should report damage including stock and fodder losses, damage to crops, pastures, fencing and other farm infrastructure through the Natural Disaster Damage Survey. This will ensure we understand the severity and distribution of the damage and can target resources and assistance in the appropriate areas.

Visit Bushfire hub for more information: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/emergencies/bushfires

For updates on the fire situation, check the NSW Rural Fire Service website or call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

Media contact: 02 6391 3686

www.dpi.nsw.gov.au