Mr Willis, who brings extensive experience as general manager of Riverina Local Land Services, will provide on-ground feedback to government to help ensure support meets local needs by hearing firsthand about drought impacts and community challenges.
Since his appointment in late November, he has met with key stakeholders including the Drought Innovation Hub, representatives from the Rural Financial Counselling Service and financial institutions.
Over the coming weeks and months, he will travel across southern NSW, attending local events, convening roundtables and working with service providers to strengthen support networks.
He will also co-ordinate government agencies to improve collaboration and enhance communication about drought support.
The government is also launching a major communications campaign through direct electronic mail, print, radio and social media to ensure farmers and communities in southern NSW understand available drought support from both state and federal governments.
NSW Agriculture Minister said the NSW Government was committed to supporting rural and regional communities in times of drought and had a wide range of support available for farmers.
“The appointment of a drought co-ordinator is one way we're making sure that impacted communities have a direct line to government about the challenges they're facing and how support can better meet their needs,” she said.
“Our major communication campaign will also ensure everyone who needs to know is fully across the drought assistance that is on offer.”
Ms Moriarty said Mr Willis would “provide regular updates on local conditions, highlight emerging issues and challenges, and share advice based off community experience and local expertise to help shape government decision-making”.
Support available for farmers through the NSW Government includes low-interest loans through the $250 million Drought Ready and Resilient Fund, farm management tools like MyStockPlanner, and on-ground support through Local Land Services including the Drought Adoption Officer Program.
Other assistance includes better recognition of drought conditions through the Seasonal Conditions Monitoring Program, mental health services through the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, and access to online resources through the NSW DroughtHub.
Those interested in engaging with the drought co-ordinator can contact drought@lls.nsw.gov.au
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