The SA Government Rural Support Grant, administered by the Rural Business Support Relief Fund, provides up to $1,500 in practical financial assistance to eligible South Australian primary producers and rural small business owners who are facing, or at risk of, financial hardship due to the impacts of Drought.
These grants offer targeted, practical relief to help alleviate the financial pressures of essential household and business expenses while clients take steps toward recovery. Our goal is to provide support during difficult times and help you regain stability.
Grants can be used to cover essential expenses such as:
- Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, mobile phone)
- Council rates
- Medical costs (including prescriptions, specialist fees, and gap payments)
- Groceries, pet food, emergency clothing/footwear
- School-related costs (books, camps, uniforms)
- Fuel, vehicle licence renewal, and plant or machinery repairs
- Sporting club fees or professional memberships
Grants are paid directly to service providers upon receipt of an official invoice or quote—not to direct applicants. Invoices or quotes must be itemised and include the supplier’s name, address, and ABN. Invoices are not required for groceries or fuel. One grant of up to $1,500 is available per eligible family per financial year and can be used to cover multiple eligible expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Rural Support Grant, applicants must:
- Live and operate their business in South Australia.
- Be a primary producer or rural small business owner, with their primary income derived from that business.
- Hold a valid ABN or ACN.
- Provide evidence of financial hardship or risk of.
- Demonstrate an average annual income of at least $60,000 across the 2020–21, 2021–22, and 2022–23 financial years.
Small rural business owners can connect with one of our small business financial counsellors to discuss eligibility and determine if they meet the income and operational criteria.
Please note: Hobby farms and businesses that cannot demonstrate significant commercial purpose are not eligible.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed with a Business Financial Counsellor or Program Support Officer and cannot be submitted by an individual. To apply, you can choose to:
- Engage in financial counselling to receive personalised support, explore all available assistance, and develop a recovery plan.
OR - Speak directly with a Program Support Officer if you prefer not to receive ongoing counselling.
Financial counsellors are experienced in helping you understand your financial position, manage debt, and explore recovery pathways. While not essential to receive a grant, many people find it valuable to speak with a counsellor as part of a broader support plan.
Once your application is assessed, our team will submit it on your behalf. The entire process, including invoice payments to service providers, is typically completed within 21 business days.
Call us on 1800 836 211
Email: [email protected]