The Nationals WA: Minister's inaction deepens crisis for Gascoyne and Murchison pastoralists

Leader of The Nationals WA and Member for Mid-West Shane Love has slammed the Cook Labor Government for its lack of action, as pastoralists across the Gascoyne and Murchison face some of the driest conditions in living memory and urgently require assistance to feed livestock.

Pastoralists in the region have endured years of below-average rainfall, with at least 20 pastoralists seeking fodder for 20,000 head of livestock.

Volunteer organisation Farmers Across Borders has stepped in to support struggling stations, donating hay, time and equipment to deliver fodder where it is needed most.

However, the charity's funds are now exhausted, placing future deliveries in doubt.

Mr Love said the situation had reached crisis point and required urgent intervention from the State Government.

"This is an animal welfare crisis, and delays are putting livestock and livelihoods at serious risk."

"I have written to the Minister for Agriculture backing the Shire of Upper Gascoyne's call for an urgent fuel subsidy so donated fodder can be delivered to stations in need, but neither my office nor the Shire have received a response."

"The silence from the Minister is deeply concerning given the severity of the situation on the ground."

Mr Love said other states already provide subsidies for hay runs during drought, recognising the importance of protecting animal welfare and supporting regional industries, and that Western Australia must do the same.

"These pastoralists do not have the luxury of waiting," he said.

"Even if we see good rains across the region in the near future, there is still demand for fodder now."

"The Cook Labor Government must act to provide practical, immediate assistance - including a fuel subsidy for fodder deliveries and freight support for pastoralists."

"Our pastoralists are doing everything they can to manage one of the driest conditions in living memory and they need a government that is prepared to stand with them, not ignore their calls for help."