Plan and prepare for drought

What is drought?

The Bureau of Meteorology describes drought as a prolonged, abnormally dry period when the amount of available water is insufficient to meet normal use. The effect of a drought can impact an entire community, particularly in agricultural regions.

Review your water usage

Include specific drought preparation steps in the toolkit:

devise an action plan to conserve, maintain and review all water resource supplies
check with local industry networks for drought planning guidelines or requirements when developing your plan
contact local authorities to obtain specific information to help develop drought management strategies for your business
research local rainfall records (you can use a combination of official records and local experience)
identify alternate water supplies, consider using non-potable water
regularly maintain your water consumption sources (e.g. install water-efficient nozzles on taps, check for leaks)
regularly maintain equipment that uses water
introduce water saving measures in your workplace.

If water restrictions are declared impacting your business:

check with your local council to learn about current water restrictions, guidelines and compliance requirements
install water-efficient appliances or fittings and check for leaks
introduce water-efficient procedures for your business operations and staff
educate and train staff about the importance of water efficiency and how it can benefit your business.

How to create a drought preparation checklist for your business

It’s important that you understand drought and how it impacts your business, community and water supplies, including the possible added costs and stress.
Taking the time to plan and prepare can lessen the impact on your business, minimise your losses and help you recover faster.
Help prepare your business with the Drought preparation checklist (DOCX 48.13 KB)

Business support

Agriculture Victoria – Farm business management support.
Partners in Wellbeing helpline (1300 375 330) offers eligible small businesses free and confidential assistance to business owners. Trained financial counsellors, business advisers, and wellbeing coaches are ready to provide one-on-one assistance today.
Additionally, you can explore a wide range of tools, resources, and information on our Workplace Wellbeing Hub.
Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) - provides free financial counselling to farmers and small businesses who are in, or at risk of, financial hardship – Call 1300 771 741.
Know your council – Municipal councils have a variety of emergency management roles that encompass all phases of emergency management, from prevention through to response to recovery.

Looking out for your livestock, pets, and other animals

If your business involves larger animals you should prepare a plan. Agriculture Victoria’s website has information on dry seasons and drought support.