Council on watch for continuing drought impacts

Published on 25 February 2026

We will closely monitor the health of the agriculture sector in the shire, with local farms expected to face a lengthy recovery from drought.

While Agriculture Victoria led the drought response during 2025, we initiated a range of support measures to assist at a local level.

A report presented to our Council during Tuesday night’s meeting noted that, although rainfall late in the year had been beneficial, recovery may take 12 months to three years and will depend on consistent rainfall and good economic conditions.

Councillor Joel Grist said it was important for Council to be aware that the drought is not fully broken.

“Agriculture is a key part of our shire’s economy and our farmers have endured extremely difficult conditions over the past year and more,” Cr Grist said.

“This also brings a knock-on effect for local businesses, especially those set up to support the agriculture sector.

“Right now we are between drought and recovery, so it’s important we continue to monitor conditions closely, talk to our community to understand the situation, and direct further support if and where it’s needed.”

Our drought support measures during 2025 included:

• Freezing 2025-26 rates for farm land at 2024-25 levels.
• Delivering ‘Better Business Skills’ programs for farmers and rural businesses.
• Hosting and promoting community-led resilience events, including Rural Roadshows and Positive Ageing Month activities.
• Promoting available financial and mental health support opportunities (such as those offered by Agriculture Victoria and the Rural Financial Counselling Service) via a dedicated webpage.
• Publicly advocating for the abolishment of the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund levy due to its unfair added burden on the agricultural community.
• Reviewing and maintaining all emergency water access points.
• Participating in Agriculture Victoria’s South-West Drought Coordination Group.

Data showing state government drought support take-up provides some indication of the level of impact locally, with 97 state grants issued to Surf Coast properties.

The full report is available in the February Council meeting minutes.