‘Getting barer by the day’: drought conditions in SA and Victoria worsen, leaving rural communities in the dust

A devastating drought has left much of South Australia and Victoria struggling to recover from below-average rainfall and record warmth, damaging crops and livestock alike. Farmers like Leonie Mills are grappling with scarce resources, as hay supplies dwindle and feed costs rise. External aid from organizations such as Rural Aid has become vital, providing critical sustenance while offering essential support during an already challenging time. The climate outlook foreports further moisture shortages, raising fears for farming operations and forcing tough decisions. Meanwhile, governments in both states have pledged new drought-assistance packages to help farmers navigate this complex crisis.