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Now is the Time for a Fresh Start |
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As the year begins, we are already hearing from farming families, fishers and rural small business owners across South Australia and the Northern Territory who are feeling the cumulative weight of the past few seasons. While some areas have seen reasonable harvest results or steadier trading, many businesses have entered 2026 with low cash reserves, delayed income, rising input costs and unresolved debt.
Across cropping regions, subdued grain prices and variable outcomes are translating into tight cashflow positions. In sectors such as wine grapes, fishing, aquaculture and regional small business, prices and market access continue to fall short of covering the cost of production. In the Northern Territory, pockets of damage from Cyclone Fina combined with seasonal variability have added further pressure to horticultural operations that were already stretched.
What we are hearing from clients already this year is that this is not about one poor season or one difficult decision. It is about the years of carrying pressure – renegotiating with banks and suppliers, postponing essential spending, juggling household expenses alongside business costs, and trying to plan ahead with limited certainty.
Some people have told us they simply feel worn down and are running out of energy to deal with what comes next. Despite broader industry commentary suggesting recovery is underway, our team continues to receive calls from producers and small business owners who are under significant strain and quietly looking for a way to reset their finances and regain a sense of control. |
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Financial fatigue is real
After consecutive years of tight margins, repeated adjustment and difficult conversations, financial fatigue is a very real experience. For many, it is not one single issue but the accumulation of pressures.
That fatigue can make it harder to step back and see options clearly, even when they do exist. It can also make it harder to know where to start.
This is where our Rural Financial Counselling and Small Business Financial Counselling services can be particularly helpful at this time of year, because we offer a fresh set of eyes on your situation and provide clear information and options.
Resetting business finances
Taking time to look honestly at business finances is an important step. This can include where the cash flow is coming from as well as where your available cash has gone and where pressure points are building; looking ahead at the months to come rather than just the next bill; and separating what feels overwhelming from what is manageable. For some, it also means identifying decisions that have been put off simply because there has not been space to deal with them.
Our approach is about clarity. And clarity is often the first step toward relief.
Seeking support does not mean things have failed. In many cases, it means someone is ready to stop carrying the load alone.
Support that meets you where you are
Our Rural and Business Financial Counsellors take the time to understand your whole situation, not just the numbers, but the realities behind them. They are based in the regions they serve and have local knowledge and understanding of the impacts on your business. And their support is free, independent and confidential.
Many people tell us that the first call to our FREECALL 1800 number itself brings a sense of relief, simply because they have had the chance to talk things through with someone who understands what they are experiencing, with no judgement.
If you have ever wondered what that first phone call looks like, we have included an article this month that steps through exactly what to expect. |
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A steady way forward
There is no single right time to reach out, but early conversations often open up more options. Reaching out early can help reduce pressure, offer more choices and avoid issues escalating further down the track.
As this new year begins, my advice is simple. If you are feeling tired, uncertain or under pressure, do not wait until things feel unmanageable. A conversation now can help bring clarity, direction and practical next steps.
FREECALL 1800 836 211 |
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At Rural Business Support (RBS), we know that reaching out for help isn’t always easy, particularly in rural and regional communities where asking for help can feel difficult. That’s why we focus on making the first conversation simple, respectful and supportive.
The intake process
When you call our FREECALL 1800 836 211 number, you are not put through to a call centre. Your call is answered by one of our local, dedicated Programs Support Officers, who will listen to your concerns and, take the time to understand your situation; they will assist our team in determining what support may be best for you.
The initial conversation is about understanding what’s going on. You don’t need to know what to ask for or have any paperwork prepared. Our team will ask a few guiding questions about your business and what is impacting your finances. They will explain your available options, and work through your eligibility for the most appropriate support program.
If we don’t have a program that suits your situation, our Programs Support Officers will provide you with alternative contacts or other appropriate support.
Connecting people with the right support
Where ongoing support is appropriate, we organise a referral and connect clients with a Rural or Business Financial Counsellor who understands your region and industry.
Confidentiality and discretion is important to us, including giving you the option to work with a Financial Counsellor outside of your local area or via remote support.
Your Financial Counsellor will then make direct contact to introduce themselves and arrange one-on-one support in a way that works best for you, whether on farm, over the phone, via video, at your kitchen table, or a combination of approaches.
Clear, free and confidential
All RBS Financial Counselling services are free, independent and confidential. There are no hidden costs and no obligation to continue. If phone lines are busy, you can leave a message or send an enquiry via our website, and we will respond within 48 hours (often sooner).
At its core, the RBS intake process is designed to reduce barriers, build trust and ensure people feel supported from the very first conversation.
No long forms. No pressure. Just a clear path to practical support. |
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Recognising 20 years of Rural Financial Counselling in South Australia |
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In 2026, Rural Business Support marks 20 years of delivering the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) in South Australia. A milestone that reflects two decades of steady, trusted support for farming families across the state.
Since the establishment of a single, statewide service in 2006, the RFCS has evolved alongside the challenges facing rural businesses, while remaining grounded in its core purpose: providing free, independent and confidential financial counselling. This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the people, partnerships and communities that have shaped the service, and to acknowledge the foundations of trust and local connection that continue to underpin its work today.
Read the full article. |
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Meet our New Rural Financial Counsellors |
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| Jacob Bockelberg RURAL FINANCIAL COUNSELLOR |
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Jacob joins RBS with a background in accounting and a strong connection to farming life on the Lower Eyre Peninsula. Coming from a family farm, he understands the realities primary producers face and the importance of making sound, practical decisions in challenging conditions.
Jacob offers clear, grounded support, with a strong focus on sustainability, business viability and helping clients make informed decisions for the long term. |
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| | Terry Sutton RURAL FINANCIAL COUNSELLOR |
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| Terry joins RBS with a strong background spanning family farming, agribusiness, banking and as a Chartered Accountant. He grew up on a family-run rose farm and worked closely with farming clients across his career, so understands how quickly changing conditions can impact cash flow and decision-making.
Terry brings clear financial insight, and a genuine focus on helping clients feel supported and informed during challenging times. |
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Celebrating Nine Years of Dedicated Service to Rural Families |
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We recently marked the retirement of
Rural Financial Counsellor Lynton Keen, recognising nine years of dedicated service supporting many rural families. Based in our Murray Bridge office, Lynton primarily supported clients across the Murraylands, Riverland and South-East regions.
Throughout his career, Lynton provided meaningful support to clients during challenging times and made a lasting impact on colleagues across RBS. His knowledge, professionalism and quiet commitment were highly valued by those he worked alongside.
We thank Lynton for his care, dedication and contribution, and wish him all the very best in his retirement. |
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| | | A Helping Hand for Regional Students |
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Do you know a student in a remote or regional area who needs a hand with their study?
Applications are now open for scholarships of up to $2500 for 2026 through the E.W. Stevens Trust Fund, administered by Primary Producers SA.
Hurry! Applications close 31 January 2026.
Clients are encouraged to discuss eligibility with their financial counsellor. |
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SA Water is offering support to customers experiencing financial hardship, including flexible payment plans, due date extensions and its Payment Assistance Program.
This support helps residential customers stay connected and better manage their bills, with options tailored to individual circumstances.
Customers are encouraged to contact SA Water early to discuss the support available. |
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Creating a workplace where people feel safe to speak up, ask questions and share ideas is critical for wellbeing and performance.
This free Mindarma webinar explores what psychological safety really means and offers practical, research-informed actions small businesses can apply straight away.
Learn what leading organisations are doing to promote mental health, foster a positive work environment and create a culture of care. |
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| | Our Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) provides free, independent and confidential support to farmers and rural businesses across South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Our Rural Financial Counsellors can help you assess your financial position, explore options, and develop practical plans to manage challenges, access assistance, and build resilience for your farm and family.
As rural people helping rural people, we understand the challenges you face and we’re here to help you build confidence in your next steps. |
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Our Small Business Financial Counselling (SBFC) Service provides free, independent and confidential support to small rural businesses across South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Our Business Financial Counsellors can work with you to understand your financial position, navigate challenges, and develop practical strategies to strengthen your business, manage debt, and plan for the future with confidence.
As locals supporting locals, we recognise the pressures small business owners face and we’re here to help you navigate the path forward and feel empowered in your next steps. |
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Our Landowner Information Service (LIS) offers free, impartial and confidential information to South Australian landowners.
The LIS can help you understand the land access process, explain key points to be aware of, and provide clear, factual guidance so you can make informed decisions about the future use of your land.
If you’re a landowner with questions about your rights and responsibilities regarding exploration, mining, quarrying, or other resource activities, seek independent, factual information to stay confident in your decisions. |
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The RBS Relief Fund provides practical support to farmers, fishers, foresters, and small family-owned rural businesses across South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Grants can help cover every day essential costs and provide timely assistance, giving you space to focus on recovery, strengthen resilience, and maintain business stability.
Our team can guide you through the process and help you access the support that best suits your needs.
Contact us today to explore available grants and take the first step toward a stronger future. |
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Want to connect with RBS? Our team will be attending the following events: |
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| FEB 03 | GPSA Grain Industry Awards
Adelaide Oval More Info |
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| FEB 04 | Adelaide Hills Tourism Industry Networking Event
Ambleside Distillers, Hahndorf More Info |
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| FEB 25 | Regional Leadership Summit ‘Grit, Growth & Glory’
Westland Hotel, Whyalla More Info |
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| FEB 27 | Rural Media Communicators SA/NT Awards Dinner
Adelaide Showgrounds More Info |
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| | | Stay connected with Rural Business Support Want to keep up with the latest grants, rural financial support, industry news, and upcoming events? Our e-newsletter delivers practical insights and helpful resources straight to your inbox.
Know someone who could benefit? Forward this to a friend or colleague and encourage them to sign up too! |
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| | Founded in 2006, Rural Business Support (RBS) is an organisation committed to building a profitable, sustainable and resilient rural sector by supporting businesses, farmers, landowners and communities in rural, regional and remote South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Our programs and services are free, independent and confidential for eligible clients. |
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