Two information sessions to inform farming and small businesses about Exceptional Circumstances (EC) applications will be held in the Lower South East on Monday 26th November, 2007.

The EC declaration for the region enables eligible farmers and agricultural-dependent small businesses to apply for income support, business planning and interest rate subsidies until 31 March 2009.

The information sessions will be conducted by Primary Industries and Resources SA (PIRSA), Rural Financial Counselling Services SA, and Centrelink. 

The workshops will explain Exceptional Circumstances assistance eligibility, the application process for income support and interest rate subsidies. Information also will be provided on other available assistance.

Application centres will be set up in each location shortly after.

For more information telephone 1800 836 211.

Sessions times and locations for the 26th November are as follows:

* Mount Gambier Presidential Motel  10.30 to 12pm

* Coonawarra  Chardonnay Lodge  1.30 to 3pm 

AUTHOR: Karen Shepherd, Information & Communications Management, SA Government Drought Response, PIRSA

CONTACT: Karen Shepherd, shepherd.karen@saugov.sa.gov.au, Telephone (08) 8389 8835,  Mobile 0427 615 099