Govt extends national EI assistance

CANBERRA - Australian Government assistance has been extended to people affected by equine influenza (EI) horse movement restrictions.
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Burke, said the assistance had been extended for those in restricted zones until March 14 or until movement restrictions are lifted.
"While the eradication of equine influenza from Australia is on track, I understand there are many businesses and individuals still facing hardship due to the continuing standstill.
"After consulting with horse industry stakeholders, I have decided to extend the Equine Workers Hardship Wage Supplement Payment, the Business Assistance Grant and the Commercial Horse Assistance Payment.
"This Equine Influenza Assistance Package has gone a long way to reducing the overall impact since the outbreak occurred.
"I am sure the decision to extend this assistance will be welcomed by people doing business in the areas affected by the continued movement restrictions."
Further information on the assistance measures is available from the Equine Influenza Hotline on 1800 234 002 or www.outbreak.gov.au