The federal and NSW agriculture ministers must inspect the damage to crops from heavy rain and floods, the NSW Nationals Senator, Fiona Nash, said.
Heavy rain has damaged cereal and cherry crops across the state.
There's similar damage in Queensland and Victoria.
"Just as farmers dared to hope for a bumper crop after a good start to the season, the recent deluge is heartbreaking. After years of drought and mounting debt, this is the last thing they need," Senator Nash said.
Senator Nash said she's disappointed the NSW Agriculture Minister, Steve Whan, has ruled out any assistance for farmers. He instead says farmers will still make money out of harvest.
"Much of that income will be significantly reduced as crops are
downgraded, that is, those that survived. In most cases, it goes
straight back into reducing debt and keeping the farm afloat. In many cases the income from those crops won't meet the cost of production.
"I challenge those who hold a similar view to that of Minister Whan, to work a year on little or no income. Farmers have done it for years."
A technical specialist from Mr Whan's own department told the ABC
recently the rain "will put the nail in the coffin for northern growers
in areas like Moree, Walgett, and areas further north-east as well". And rural counsellors are concerned about the emotional toll it's having on farmers.
"These farmers produce our food and fibre. They should be looked after. I urge Mr Whan, and the federal Agriculture Minister, Joe Ludwig, to visit these farmers and see the damage themselves before ruling out any assistance for farmers.
"Don't rule anything out until you do."
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