Almost half of NSW is expected to be in drought in a matter of months – and the state’s farmers say more “tangible” drought support measures are needed.

NSW’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has estimated 46 per cent of the state will be in drought by the end of September, with conditions to intensify in parts of the Northern Tablelands, North Coast and Hunter regions.

While a range of grants, funds and loans are already available for eligible primary producers to aid with drought, NSW Farmers grains committee chair and incoming vice-president Justin Everitt said more tangible assistance on the ground was necessary.

“Incentives for on-farm infrastructure improvements such as silos, livestock water infrastructure and containment areas, is one solution proposed,” he said.

NSW Farmers said that it would advocate for the NSW government to provide dollar-for-dollar matched drought assistance grants for drought-affected farming businesses for water infrastructure improvements, fodder purchases up to $15,000 and financial planning services.