They say it took a while to happen but the Queensland government has welcomed a federal drought assistance package for farmers.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced the $190 million relief package to help farmers and their communities fight one of the worst droughts of the past century.

Dairy farmer Brendan Hayden on his drought-stricken property in Pilton, Queensland (near Toowoomba). Credit:Peter Rickards

Farmers will be able to access up to $12,000 in cash payments under the package which also includes a boost for mental health services.

The government is also changing the assets test to allow an estimated 8000 more farmers to access support.