Major health fund nib has announced a health insurance premium waiver for their drought-stricken members, to help maintain their health in one of the worst droughts in recent history.

nib members who are currently receiving the federal government’s Farm Household Allowance and who live in a drought-declared area may apply for the six-month waiver for 100% of their current health insurance premiums, available from Sept. 1 to Dec. 31.

Members who have had to cancel or downgrade their cover since June 1 due to the financial impact of the drought may also avail of the health insurance premium relief package.

“It means eligible farmers who are nib members will effectively get free health insurance for them and their families for six months,” said Mark Fitzgibbon, nib managing director. “Hopefully, this will help see them through until things improve, and also that there is some trickle-down effect for their local communities. Our support also reflects our recognition that the sustainability of our business and that of any other, relies upon having sustainable communities.”

nib said it will directly contact eligible members to advise them of the health insurance premium relief package and how to apply. Members may also contact the health fund via phone (13 14 63), website, email, or by visiting one of nib’s retail centres.