The Nationals Senator for New South Wales John Williams has praised Centrelink for its immediate response to the Delungra Exceptional Circumstances interim support.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Senator Joe Ludwig announced last Friday that interim drought assistance in the form of income support payments will be available to eligible farmers and small business operators in the Delungra application area while NRAC considers whether a formal EC declaration should be made.

Senator Williams said Centrelink has taken immediate steps to meet with people who could qualify for assistance.

" Centrelink has advised me a Rural Services Officer will be working out of the Inverell office today and tomorrow.

On Thursday the mobile service unit will be in the main street of Tingha between 9.45am and 4pm, and on Friday the mobile service unit will be at the Delungra Recreation Ground between 9am and 4pm.

It will be staffed by three Rural Services Officers who can assist with information on interim income support and other services.

Because there are between 350 and 400 farming families in the application area, I would suggest applicants take a copy of a rates notice so their location can be easily identified.

In the meantime farmers can phone the Rural Services Hotline on 13 23 16.

Centrelink should be congratulated for taking immediate steps to help those affected", Senator Williams said.