• CWA President congratulates and thanks the Australian public for their overwhelming response
  
• National Toll Free number for funding applications announced

The Woolworths National Drought Action Day received overwhelming support from Australian shoppers, with profits for the day totalling $4,714,033*. This amount far exceeded the expected total of $3 million and clearly indicates that the issue has struck a chord with Australians everywhere.

All Woolworths and Safeway supermarkets around the country reported a significant increase in customers who were keen to make a contribution to farming families in need. The money will be distributed by the Country Women's

Association (CWA) with two thirds going directly to help families with household necessities such as utility bills, groceries and back to school expenses.

The remaining one third will be set aside for an initiative to support sustainable agriculture. Woolworths acknowledges that it is not an expert in this field so will be working closely with the CWA and the National Farmers' Federation over the coming weeks to identify how best to direct this portion of the money.

The National President of the Country Women's Association, Lesley Young, was greatly inspired by the support of the Australian people. "Australian people rally together in times of adversity and this amazing contribution is evidence that we can really pull together when we need to.

"We have seen the best of Australia and we have been reminded that there is a strong and enduring link between the country and the cities. All Australians are suffering this drought together," Mrs Young said.

"This initiative has raised the spirits of people in the country beyond belief.

Across the country, we've had people contacting the CWA asking how they can help and how they can make a difference, not just for the Drought Action Day but also into the future." Mrs Young said.

Woolworths CEO, Michael Luscombe, said that visitor numbers to Woolworths and Safeway supermarkets across Australia had exceeded his expectations. "In the lead up to National Drought Action Day, we had a great response from community groups, sporting clubs and businesses wanting to promote the cause and help farming families. We would like to thank everyone who kindly offered their support.

"The farming community is such a vital part of our history, culture and our daily lives and we believe the day has made a small, but profound difference in raising awareness of the issues they are facing. I would like to underline Woolworths' absolute commitment to supporting rural communities and we look forward to building on this initiative over the coming months and years.

Application forms for assistance will be available from the CWA from February 1

2007. The CWA has also announced a national toll free telephone line to assist families in applying for funds. The number is: 1800 237 876. This number will be active from 10:00am, Thursday 25 January 2007.

* The profit calculation has been independently verified by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and fully disclosed to the Country Women's Association of Australia on a confidential basis.

MEDIA RELEASE $4.7 million for Drought Relief exceeds all expectations