Frost Damage

In reply to Mr WHETSTONE (Chaffey) (26 September 2024).

The Hon. S.C. MULLIGHAN (Lee—Treasurer, Minister for Defence and Space Industries): I have been advised by the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development:

The exact impacts of the September frost event are not yet able to be quantified as the full extent of the damage won't show for some weeks. PIRSA continues to work closely with industry bodies to gather information on impacts as they are known.

Viticulture and grain industries have endured the most significant impacts, particularly in the areas of the Barossa Valley, Riverland, Mid North and Eyre Peninsula.

To quantify frost impacts in the wine industry, PIRSA is currently utilising satellite imagery analysis to map the extent of frost impacts to the wine industry. This will be coordinated with work commissioned by Riverland Wine and is based on successful analysis undertaken earlier in the year for a frost event that occurred in the Clare Valley.

Frost impacts to grains and pastures are captured by PIRSA in the Crop and Pasture report.

PIRSA is liaising with various industry groups who are supporting affected growers through the provision of clear, practical advice to best allow frost-impacted primary producers to mitigate the worst impacts and try to achieve the best possible outcome for the season ahead.

As this is a stressful time for frost-impacted primary producers, wellbeing and financial counselling support is being provided through the PIRSA Family and Business Support Program which includes FaB Mentors and Rural Financial Counselling.

In partnership with industry bodies and community groups, PIRSA continues to monitor conditions and identify additional support required.