Rudd in climate change warning to farmers

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd says farmers will have to consider the impact of climate changes under new drought management policies.

Mr Rudd has told the ABARE Outlook 2008 Conference in Canberra that he has asked Agriculture Minister Tony Burke to consult the states and territories and farmers to update the existing policy.

He has allocated $130 million over four years to the scheme and says the Government is committed to helping farmers.

"The Government will not be walking away from farmers in difficulty," he said.

"We need however a new approach, mindful of the new climate change realities.

"The Government wants to ensure that any assistance provided to farmers improves the resilience of farmers and farm businesses into the future."

Meanwhile, Mr Rudd says there is scope to reduce emissions and increase productivity of farming by looking into increasing carbon levels in soil.