When the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) spread across South Australia’s coastal waters in mid-March, many small fishing and processing businesses were suddenly left without an income. For Nikko, a fisher and small-scale processor, the event halted operations for months—no catch, no sales, and no clear guidance from government agencies in the early stages.
Nikko’s frustration grew as the HAB’s impact went unrecognised. With no income, he couldn’t afford to have his financials completed, delaying access to recovery assistance. His mental health declined, and he described feeling invisible and powerless.
When Nikko contacted RBS’s Small and Family Business Financial Counselling program, his goal was simple—he wanted to get back on the water, sell fish again, and have his story heard. He also wanted to apply for government funding but didn’t have the capacity to understand or manage the application process.
At first, Nikko was highly agitated and overwhelmed. The Business Financial Counsellor (BFC) focused on building trust and addressing immediate pressures. Using calm, consistent communication, the BFC helped Nikko feel heard and guided him through practical steps to reduce stress.
A South Australian Government Rural Support Grant was accessed from the RBS Relief Fund to cover essential expenses, including childcare and phone bills, providing some structure for his young family while allowing limited cash flow to be redirected toward debts.
Regular contact was maintained through online meetings, texts, and emails. As confidence grew, Nikko began re-engaging with his medical practitioner, accountant, and industry body. The BFC also encouraged him to connect with his PIRSA Family and Business (FaB) Mentor, providing another layer of advice and personal guidance.
Through steady encouragement, Nikko accessed help to finalise his end of year financials and complete additional HAB grant applications to offset the decrease in cashflow.
He became calmer, more organised, and better able to navigate paperwork and deadlines. Importantly, he developed a clearer understanding of what information was required and took greater responsibility for managing his business affairs.
Although environmental conditions continued to limit his ability to fish, Nikko’s outlook shifted. He demonstrated greater self-confidence, maintained contact with his professional and health networks, and showed genuine progress in rebuilding his financial capability.
This case highlights the combined impact of environmental and financial pressure on small businesses and the value of early engagement. By fostering trust and taking a practical, person-centred approach, the BFC helped Nikko move from a state of crisis to one of renewed confidence and direction—laying the foundations for resilience as his industry recovers.
