A new program has been launched by the state government to help better support drought-affected farmers across SA.
The $330,000 Farm Business Management Program is a part of the expanded $21-million Drought Support Package announced earlier this year and aims to help build stronger business models and improve long-term resilience.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone said the program would run for 12 months and was open to a range of businesses which have been impacted by drought.
"While there have been solid opening rains in many areas of the state, it doesn't immediately end the drought and we are well aware that many people in drought-affected regions are still doing it tough with the COVID-19 impacts on regional communities now providing an extra challenge," he said.
"This program is a practical way to help these farm businesses to not only recover from the drought's impacts but to actually come back with a stronger business model."
The program is open to producers from grain, livestock and mixed enterprise businesses within drought-affected areas of SA and the program will improve farm business planning skills.
"We know that increasing farm business resilience and aiding recovery allows these businesses to better prepare for and withstand future adverse impacts," Mr Whetstone said.
Agribusiness Consultant at Pinion Advisory James Hillcoat, will deliver the program and he said it would involve one-on-one coaching and group online sessions during a 12-month period.
"At a significantly subsidised cost thanks to the government funding, participants will undertake a strategic review of their business and develop a plan that's specific to their needs and situation," he said.
"A real benefit of this new program is that over the course of the 12 months, we will check back in quarterly, address business goals and risks, identify opportunities for improvement and help guide on-farm implementation.
"Eligible producers who take part will develop skills that help with managing external challenges, increase their confidence in on-farm decision making and access practical systems and tools that will not only help them analyse their business but assist in their recovery."
Interested producers are encouraged to contact Pinion Advisory to express their interest in participating in the Farm Business Management Program.
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