WHEATBELT communities have a new long-term roadmap to strengthen drought preparedness and resilience, following the finalisation of the Wheatbelt regional drought resilience plan.

Led by the Wheatbelt Development Commission, the plan was developed over two years in partnership with local governments, industry, Traditional Owners, community representatives and key stakeholders.

Extensive community consultation was supported by technical analysis of the Wheatbelt’s drought risks and capacity to adapt to increasingly challenging conditions.

The plan identifies more than 30 priority actions to strengthen water security, support agriculture, build resilient communities and protect the natural environment across the Wheatbelt and will help inform future partnerships, policy and investment throughout the region.

Developed through the regional drought resilience planning program, the initiative is jointly funded by the federal government’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry through the Future Drought Fund and WA’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

WA Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said drought prepearation is essential to maintaining a productive and sustainable Wheatbelt.

“Wheatbelt farmers and communities understand the challenges of dry seasons and a changing climate better than most, and we want to make sure they are well prepared for the future,” she said.

“This plan is about bringing together local knowledge, experience and expertise to identify practical solutions that will strengthen resilience and water security, support agricultural innovation and help primary producers adapt to changing conditions.”

Wheatbelt Minister Sabine Winton said the impacts of drought extend well beyond the farm gate, affecting communities, businesses, infrastructure and the environment across the Wheatbelt.

“This plan recognises those wider impacts and provides a co-ordinated approach to strengthening the resilience of the region as a whole.

“It reflects the priorities identified by local communities and will help guide future planning and investment across the Wheatbelt.”

Bullwinkel MP Trish Cook said the joint investment from the Future Drought Fund will ensure western Wheatbelt communities have a say in shaping their own future and the resources to adapt.

“It’s about being proactive rather than reactive, making sure Bullwinkel’s regional towns and beyond have the resilience they need to thrive through tough seasons,” she said.

To read the Wheatbelt regional drought resilience plan visit the webpage.