Farmers, fishers, foresters and related small businesses will be able to continue accessing free financial counselling services, with the announcement today of new funding agreements under the Rural Financial Counselling Service.
The Albanese Government is investing $38.8 million to support the Rural Financial Counselling Service to deliver important services through to 2026.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the new funding agreements provide certainty for financial counselling services in rural communities facing impending drought.
“While Australia’s farmers are sensible, capable business owners who understand the ever-changing environment they work in, it’s hard to know what’s around every corner,” Minister Watt said.
“Drought, biosecurity outbreaks, natural disasters, commodity downturns – there’s a lot for rural Australians to deal with. That is where a service like financial counselling can be of help.
“For more than 35 years, rural financial counsellors have provided help to those in the industry who are experiencing, or at risk of, financial hardship.
“Whether it’s to manage a business during a financial crisis, improving the bottom line of a business, or making the decision to leave the land with dignity, rural financial counsellors are a vital service to our sector.
“I’m very proud to say that the Albanese Government is extending contracts to deliver this important service for another two years.
“There are 10 rural financial counselling services across Australia servicing 12 regions, everywhere from Kingaroy, Leongatha to Murray Bridge.
“Our funding commitment means counselling services can retain a skilled workforce in rural areas and not cause disruption to any clients who are already receiving financial counselling.
“We are committed to protecting and growing Australia’s agriculture sector, and one of the best ways we can do that is to give people the tools they need to help themselves when they need it most.”
