Drought assistance available for affected Queensland primary producers
Primary producers in Balonne, Goondiwindi, Southern Downs and southern Maranoa may now be eligible for drought assistance following the declaration of these areas.
The declarations follow prolonged below-average rainfall and pasture growth across Queensland’s inland border regions. A total of $10 million has been allocated to support drought-affected producers.
- Emergency Drought Assistance Loans of up to $50,000 interest-free https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/program/emergency-drought-assistance-loans
- Drought Carry-on Finance Loans of up to $250,000 interest-free to help cover business operating expenses https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/program/drought-carry-finance-loans
Producers in the declared areas should review the eligibility criteria and apply as soon as possible if assistance is needed.
NB: On 28 July 2026, the Minister for Primary Industries announced new Queensland drought declarations and the reinstatement of Drought Carry-on Finance Loans and Emergency Drought Assistance Loans for eligible Queensland primary producers. Full details of these loans will be available once administrative arrangements are finalised. Please monitor QRIDA’s website and social media channels for more information about when these loans will open for applications and how to apply.
More drought assistance information is also available at Drought Advice for Agribusiness »
