The Productivity Commission today released a draft report outlining an economic assessment of drought support measures in Australia. The draft report will be available for further public submissions until Friday 19 December 2008 before a final report is provided to the Government in February 2009. The Commission will also hold public hearings and round table discussions during November and December.

 CLICK HERE for more information about these meetings.

 Download the report from the Productivity Commission website. 

The final Productivity Commission report will be the last of three commissioned by the Government in April this year as part of a national review of drought support.

The acting Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Martin Ferguson AM MP, thanked the Productivity Commission for its comprehensive draft report.

“This is part of a three-stage process which began in February with the unanimous agreement of the states and territories in Cairns,” Minister Ferguson said.

“While discussions over future drought policy continue, we have guaranteed that the rules will not change for anyone currently receiving assistance.

“The final Productivity Commission report will be considered, along with the CSIRO / Bureau of Meteorology climate assessment, and the report on the social impact of drought.

“Minister Burke will then build on the most practical suggestions to ensure the drought support system better prepares farmers for the future.

“The Rudd Government looks forward to continuing to work with farmers to deliver an improved drought policy during 2009.”

Submissions on the draft Productivity Commission report can be emailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it