The New South Wales government has announced that a rebate is now available to claim for households and small businesses affected by the mouse plague.
As part of the government’s $150 million Mouse Control Program, eligible households can claim up to $500 and small businesses up to $1,000 for the cost of mouse baits, traps, and cleaning materials bought after Feb. 1, 2021.
Households and businesses can only receive the rebate once, so Barilaro said he encouraged those who have spent near the maximum amount available to make their claims as soon as possible.
NSW Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall said primary producers who lived where they worked could be eligible to claim up to $1,000 to assist in the cost of protecting their premises.
“Farmers know how to protect their crops and are well prepared to meet a potential mouse surge as we draw closer to the spring harvest and this rebate will help them to also safeguard their homes,” Marshall said.
“By the end of the month, primary producers will also be able to claim a 50 percent rebate on purchases of zinc phosphide-based bait, to a maximum of $10,000, through the Rural Assistance Authority.”
The mouse plague has been affecting Aussies since September 2020 and has caused widespread devastation to crops, vehicles and homes.
“The APVMA’s primary concern is environmental safety, particularly in relation to animals that eat mice,” APVMA CEO Lisa Croft said.