Who can contact Rural Business Support for assistance?
We support commercial farmers, fishers, foresters, landholders and small businesses across South Australia and the Northern Territory. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, it’s always worth reaching out, and we can help clarify your options.
What happens when I contact Rural Business Support?
You can contact us by calling FREECALL 1800 836 211 or by sending a message through our website.
When you get in touch, you’ll speak with someone from our dedicated team of Program Support Officers, who will take the time to listen and understand your situation. If our phone lines are busy, please leave a message, one of our team will get back to you within 48 hours (often sooner).
They’ll talk through what’s going on, check whether our services are the right fit for you, and help identify the most suitable support option. If you are eligible for our services, they’ll connect you with a team member best suited to support you.
A designated team member will then be in touch directly to introduce themselves and arrange one-on-one support at a time and place that works for you.
Does it cost anything to access RBS’s services?
All our services are free, independent and confidential. There are no fees or hidden costs.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Yes. Our support is confidential and provided with care and respect for your privacy, particularly within rural and regional communities where discretion is important.
If you’re more comfortable speaking with someone outside your local area, just let us know and we’ll make that arrangement.
Do I need to be in financial hardship to get in touch?
No. You don’t need to be in crisis. Many people contact us early to get clarity, plan ahead, or talk through their options before things become overwhelming. We can support businesses that are experiencing OR are at risk of financial hardship.
I’m busy or remote, how will it work?
We understand how busy running a business can be, and that it’s not always easy to step away. Our team works around you and can meet on-farm, in town, at your kitchen table, or by phone or video call. Whatever suits your situation.
You can talk through what works best for you when you first speak with our Program Support Team, or later once you’re connected with another team member.
How long will I wait for an appointment?
Our FREECALL 1800 836 211 line is open 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday, where you can speak directly with a Program Support Officer.
If our phone lines are busy or you leave a message or enquiry, one of our team will get back to you within 48 hours (often sooner).
Once you’re connected with someone in our team, they’ll be in touch within 14 business days (often sooner) to introduce themselves and arrange an appointment that works for you.
What services does Rural Business Support offer?
Rural Financial Counselling Service for eligible primary producers in SA and the NT.
Small Business Financial Counselling Service catering to eligible small businesses in SA, as well as small business owners in Central Australia (Alice Springs).
Landowner Information Service for South Australian landowners, farmers and community members with queries relating to resources exploration, mining, quarrying, hydrogen and renewable energy projects.
RBS Relief Fund provides practical and immediate financial support to primary producers, foresters, fishers, and small agricultural related enterprises facing distress or hardship due to adverse events or natural disasters beyond their control.
What if I’m not sure which service I need?
That’s okay. You don’t need to know which program fits, just contact us and we’ll help connect you with the right support, whether that’s Rural Financial Counselling, Small Business Financial Counselling, Landowner Information service, or another service that may be better suited to your situation.