The Nationals Senator for New South Wales John Williams says farmers and small business operators in an area that formed the Delungra Exceptional Circumstances application have been granted interim drought assistance.

Senator Williams said he has been advised by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Senator Joe Ludwig that income support payments will be made available for up to six months for eligible farmers and small business owners.

The assistance will be available for up to six months from today or until full EC is declared, whichever occurs first.

"Minister Ludwig has recognised that although conditions have improved in recent months, the previous couple of years had taken its toll in the Delungra region.

He has asked the National Rural Advisory Council (NRAC) to consider whether a formal EC declaration should be made, but it is good to see he has agreed to the short term assistance.

NRAC members inspected the district on the 5^th and 6^th of October at which time I stressed to the them the need for help. They were very diligent in their inspections and meetings and only time will tell if NRAC will eventually recommend full EC assistance.

In the meantime I would encourage farmers and small business operators in the Delungra application area to contact the Drought Assistance Hotline on 13 23 16 to discuss their eligibility", Senator Williams said.

Contact Senator Williams on 0427 029 918 or Greg Kachel on 0428 253 560.