Help to support farm households

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry – Farm Household Allowance

The Farm Household Allowance (FHA) program provides assistance to commercial-scale farmers and their partners who are experiencing financial hardship for any reason.

The program provides eligible farmers and their partners with a package of assistance that includes:

• up to 4 years of fortnightly income support (in every 10-year period)
• ancillary allowances such as Pharmaceutical Allowance, Telephone Allowance, Rent Assistance and Remote Area Allowance and a Health Care Card
• a professional financial assessment of the farm business (worth up to $1,500)
• funding to help develop skills, access training and pay for professional advice (up to $10,000 per person)
• Regular tailored support of a case manager.

You can get help to understand and apply for Farm Household Allowance. Specially trained staff are available on the Farmer Assistance hotline at Services Australia, call 132 316 between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

You can also talk to a Rural Financial Counsellor. It is a free service. They will evaluate your situation and let you know what you can apply for. Find your local service provider by visiting the Rural Financial Counselling Service webpage.

See all drought and rural support provided