The federal government has announced a comprehensive review of its drought policies to cope with the effects of climate change.

Agriculture Minister Tony Burke said the three-part review would look at drought support measures for farmers, likely future weather patterns and the social impact of drought.

Mr Burke said the need for a new drought policy was a clear message at last weekend's 2020 summit.

"The idea of reviewing drought policy was backed by many submissions and discussions as part of the Australia 2020 summit in Canberra," Mr Burke said in a statement.

"In the face of climate change and increasing global pressures on food supply, now is the time to make sure we continue to build a resilient and adaptable farming sector."

A critical issue for drought-stricken farmers is the future of the so-called Exceptional Circumstances (EC) funding they receive from the government. The aid is distributed in cases of rare, severe circumstances that occur on average once in 20-25 years.

Mr Burke said the review would not affect anyone currently receiving EC assistance, but the EC system needed to be looked at.

"If droughts become longer and more frequent, farmers may not qualify for drought support under the current definition of an exceptional event, because it may not be something which only occurs every 20-to-25-years."

In the review, the Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO will be charged with considering future weather patterns.

The Productivity Commission will assess of drought support measures.

An expert panel led by an eminent Australian will look at the social impacts of drought, the statement said.


Source: AAP