A fresh set of eyes: Free support to help farmers find clarity during tough times

Farmers across South Australia are facing increasing financial pressures due to challenging seasonal conditions, including frost and market downturns. Thanks to funding from the South Australian, Australian, and Northern Territory Governments, Rural Business Support (RBS), through the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS), is providing critical assistance to help primary producers navigate these tough times.

RBS’s Rural Financial Counselling Service offers a range of free, confidential and independent services to support eligible farmers, fishers, foresters and small related enterprises to:

• consider the impact of the season on individual and family wellbeing
• understand their true financial position (income versus outputs, debt, insurance and oncosts)
• navigate their financial issues (might include debt management, refinancing options)
• consider long and short-term implications of market changes
• identify options for their business
• develop plans to manage cash flow and creditor payments
• access dispute resolution services
• consider transition to retirement and succession pathways
• seek broader professional advice and support
• access government and community grants, programs, or schemes

What’s important for producers to know is that we’re happy to meet with them face-to-face over a cuppa at the kitchen table. Our team is discrete and the service is free, independent and confidential.

In addition to the RFCS, RBS offers further support through its Relief Fund, which provides small grants to help farming families with essential items such as groceries, medical bills, council rates, water, and school fees. This fund is designed to provide additional support to families who are engaged in our RFCS.

Farmers are encouraged to contact RBS at the first sign of financial strain.

“We’re another set of eyes supporting farmers to model several options for dealing with the season and the potential impact on cash flow, and to have conversations relating to debt management and their financial position,” says Brett Smith.

For more information, visit ruralbusinesssupport.org.au or call 1800 836 211.