It follows advice from the National Rural Advisory Council, which has been assessing regions nearing the end of EC declarations.

The Council advised assistance for eligible farmers and small businesses should be extended for the Central North-East area in South Australia, which has been EC declared since February 2003.

The Government has accepted the Council’s advice and will extend EC assistance to eligible farmers and businesses in this region until 15 June 2009.

"NRAC advised that seasonal conditions in this region have been mixed and rainfall has been variable, ranging from 'deficient' to 'average'," Federal Agriculture Minister Tony Burke said.

"The Council found that pasture growth clearly deteriorated towards the end of last year and the recovery has not begun.

"Farmers in this region have struggled with drought for many years and will continue to receive government support."