Support for farmers and producers facing hardship

The Albanese Labor Government is unlocking further funding to support farmers and producers impacted by hardship through the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS). 

More than $2 million will be delivered to help meet ongoing demand for services in drought, flooding and bushfire affected regions of South Australia, northern New South Wales and Victoria. 

Across the country, eligible farmers, producers and small-related enterprises who are experiencing, or at risk of financial hardship can access free and independent financial counselling through the RFCS. 

The Government understands ongoing support for the RFCS will be particularly critical with farmers and producers also facing the impact of the conflict in the Middle East. 

Rural financial counsellors help clients with financial decision-making, negotiating with lenders and applying for other government assistance.  

Rural financial counsellors are qualified professionals who live in the communities in which they serve. 

The program has already provided financial counselling and support to more than 6,150 producers and small businesses across the 12 RFCS regions this financial year.  

Australia’s farmers and producers can contact the RFCS’s national information line on 1300 771 741 to connect with the nearest RFCS office. 

The Government is also opening the next $106 million funding round for organisations to deliver services under the RFCS Program, with an extended agreement timeframe from 3 to 5 years. 

This will give providers more certainty, helping to deliver long-term outcomes and supporting rural jobs. For more information visit Community Grants Hub home page .

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP: 

“I know the Middle East conflict has already impacted on our farmers and producers and will be causing concern and it comes after drought, floods, and bushfires.  

“Rural financial counsellors are trained to listen to financial problems and tailor-make support for each client. 

“One of the best ways we can support Australia’s agriculture sector is by giving people the tools and guidance they need to navigate financial challenges and make informed decisions. 

“Rural counselling has been helping to strengthen the financial wellbeing and resilience of our agricultural, fishing and forestry industries for the past four decades.”