Report rain event loss and damage

20 March 2026

Following recent rainfall in the Sunraysia area that delivered more than two thirds of the region’s annual total in just 48 hours, Agriculture Victoria is asking growers to report loss and damage to their industry group so the full impact of the event can be understood.

Almond, grape and melon harvests were disrupted when close to 150 mm of rain fell across the region earlier this month. Water damage and access issues are continuing to impact an already challenging season.

State Agency Commander Wendy Thom said Agriculture Victoria had been working with industry to understand the impacts.

‘Loss and damage information is currently being collated by industry groups, and some impacts will take time to fully understand as harvest operations progress,’ Ms Thom said.

‘This work is critical to building an accurate picture of impacts and will help inform recovery planning, so we urge growers to report their impacts to their industry group as soon as they can.’

Agriculture Victoria has established an Incident Management Team which is working closely with growers, industry groups and local councils to understand impacts as they continue to emerge.

Agriculture Victoria is also offering technical support to farm businesses in areas including:

Growers are encouraged to access an independent assessment of their situation, with free, confidential support available through the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS), including help with cash flow, business planning, creditor negotiations and grant applications.

Mental health and wellbeing support is available for farmers, families and workers, with counsellors able to provide support on farm or over the phone. RFCS can be contacted on 1300 735 578 or via RFCS Victoria West.

Advice on recovery for water damaged orchards and crops can also be obtained by calling 136 186.

Growers should contact their industry group to report rain event impacts. For technical advice growers can call Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or email recovery@agriculture.vic.gov.au

Media contact: Danny Buttler

Phone: 0409 561 326