Overview | State Seasonal Update

May 2026

NSW-CDI status for each Local Land Service region

The New South Wales Combined Drought Indicator (NSW-CDI) is a tool that monitors drought conditions across NSW. The drought categories are based on the response of three drought indicators: soil water, plant growth and rainfall. The indicators take data over the past 12 months and rank how these conditions sit within the past 40 years of variability.

The drought indicators reflect large changes, not week to week variability and can lag on-ground conditions. The information in this section provides a regional assessment of conditions. Variability within and between farms is possible and this may not be reflected in the NSW-CDI products.

CDI status for each LLS region

Support Services

Producers and members of rural communities are encouraged to maintain contact with their local professionals who can facilitate access to appropriate support.

Local Land Services can assist landholders with drought planning and preparedness extension services; provide technical support including animal nutrition and management advice. Visit the LLS Drought Adoption Officer program website to find your local contact and more information.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service provide free, unbiased, independent, confidential and expert support to rural businesses in NSW. Contact RFCS Central and Southern NSW or RFCS Northern Region.

The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) is a non-clinical program funded by the NSW Ministry of Health delivering mental health promotion, prevention, and early intervention initiatives to help people to better prepare for, respond to and recovery from adversity. Visit their website to find out more.

Visit DroughtHub for support resources including business planning at: droughthub.nsw.gov.au

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