DPI's Role in Rural Recovery
Emergencies affecting rural properties
Emergencies such as flood, fire, storm, frost, insect and mice plagues, animal and plant disease outbreaks and drought can all affect rural families and businesses.
In cases such as these, the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has a rural recovery service ready to respond to those affected.
DPI works closely with community groups, organisations and emergency management agencies to ensure response and recovery processes are in place and ready to respond when needed.
These agencies include the Department of Human Services, Country Fire Authority, State Emergency Service, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victorian Farmers Federation and local government.
DPI’s role in rural recovery
DPI has well established rural recovery processes and experienced rural recovery staff working throughout Victoria. In the event of agricultural emergency such as flood, DPI staff will:
• Identify the immediate and ongoing needs of farm businesses, people and communities.
• Assess the loss of rural assets including stock, crops, pasture, fodder supplies, fences and farm buildings.
• Assist those affected to re-establish their businesses and communities as quickly as possible.
Privacy
When contacting people affected by an emergency, DPI staff are sensitive to the stressful nature of the situation and personal information is protected in accordance with the principles of the Information Privacy Act 2000.
Services provided by DPI
DPI recovery services begin as soon as possible after an incident.
Experienced staff will:
- Assess injured stock and provide advice on options for humane destruction or treatment.
- Assist will humane livestock destruction if required.
- Provide advice on livestock disposal and other technical matters such as pasture re-establishment or herd management.
- Provide advice on sourcing assistance such as stress management and financial counselling.
- Provide support to individuals with applications for assistance where applicable.
- Advise recovery partners on individual needs. For example, notifying local government of requirements for the disposal of stock.
- Provide information and advice to government and other agencies on the impact of the incident and relief options.
For further information or to contact your nearest rural Recovery Coordinator call the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
