The NAB Foundation has announced a $100,000 grant to Rural Aid, aimed at providing essential fodder relief and wellbeing support to farmers in drought-affected areas of Victoria and South Australia. This funding is intended to assist Rural Aid in coordinating hay drops for livestock and offering social outreach alongside referral pathways to counselling services for struggling farming families.
Khan Horne, NAB Regional and Agribusiness Executive and the bank's representative on the Victorian Drought Response Taskforce, highlighted that this support reflects NAB's broader commitment to assisting those impacted by drought. "Farmers are the backbone of our regional communities," Horne stated, emphasizing the difficult conditions many face despite recent rainfalls. He noted that one-third of NAB's lending goes to Australian farmers, with many bankers living in the same affected communities as their customers.
Through this grant, NAB Foundation aims to provide practical support where it's most needed. John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid, acknowledged the complexities presented by drought, including mental health challenges and economic impacts on local economies. He expressed that the NAB Foundation’s grant will help reach more farmers in need.
NAB is also offering financial support options such as payment pauses or restructuring loan repayments for customers facing difficulties. "We understand the pressure many farmers and agribusinesses are under right now," Horne said, encouraging those in need to contact their bank early for assistance.
Rural Aid is known for its dedication to providing practical support and vital services since its establishment in 2015. As it celebrates a decade of service, it continues partnering with farmers to overcome challenges and build resilient futures.