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| Dry Ground, High Risk: Preparing Your Farm for Bushfire Season |
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With around 20 years of delivering the Rural Financial Counselling Service, Rural Business Support (RBS) has stood alongside farmers and rural communities recovering from some of South Australia’s and the Northern Territory’s most devastating bushfires.
From Wangary on the Eyre Peninsula in 2005 and the Pinery fires in 2015, to Cuddlee Creek and Kangaroo Island over the summer of 2019-20, the Daly River fires in 2011, and the more recent Barkly and Tennant Creek fires in 2023 and 2024.
Throughout late October and November rains often spark a burst of grass and pasture growth before drying off in December, adding fuel to the fire load. But with most of South Australia experiencing below-average rainfall again this year, there’s been little improvement in soil moisture. That means fine fuels are already dry, and the risk of fast-moving grassfires remains high.
Each season brings its own challenges, but the message stays the same — preparation is everything.
As summer approaches, it’s time to take a good, honest look around the farm and ask yourself — Are you bushfire ready? |
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Know what you’ve got If a fire strikes, evidence and information will help you recover faster. Stocktake your livestock: How many head do you have right now? What’s the current market value for cattle, sheep, or replacement merino wool? Count your feed reserves: How much hay is in the shed? How much grain is in the silos? Where’s it going, and what’s it worth? Record or update your value on paper or the computer: This helps for insurance and for quick decisions if you need to move or sell stock in a hurry. Identify your most important items: Have a list of the key items that are irreplaceable and make sure they are easily accessible if you need to evacuate quickly. Consider scanning your important documents as well as receipts and popping them on a USB stick or storing them in the cloud.
The following checklists are general information only. For detailed bushfire safety advice, always follow guidance from the SA Country Fire Service (CFS), Bushfires NT and the NT Fire & Rescue Service.
Around your farm, shed and home Create or update your bushfire plan: Everyone should know what to do and where to go. Walk your boundaries: Reduce fuel loads by mowing, grazing or slashing, and keep access tracks clear, in line with local fire danger restrictions and council requirements. Maintain equipment: Service vehicles and firefighting gear. Clear vegetation: Trim branches and clean around sheds, tanks, and homes. Stay connected: Register for emergency alerts and power outage notifications. Test your water pumps: Ensure pumps are working and don’t rely on mains power to start. Check your hoses are free of tears and kinks. Talk to your neighbours: Know who’s staying, who’s leaving, and what firefighting resources are nearby. Are there elderly or mobility challenged neighbours who may need checking on?
Plan for people and pets Fires move fast, often there’s no time to think. Grab-and-go kit: Keep it ready by the door. Spare keys, passport and ID, spare cash (ATMs may be down or inaccessible), water, snacks, laptop/ tablet and important tech (don’t forget the chargers), medication and hygiene items, and a few changes of clothes. Vehicle safety kit: Consider placing a permanent kit in each vehicle containing a first aid kit, small fire extinguisher, water, woollen blanket, fire blanket, leather riggers gloves, woollen socks, cotton or woollen work pants/long sleeve shirt, battery powered radio and torch, fully charged portable power pack, compass, whistle, PPE and a multitool. Keep your kit updated and check it at the start of every fire season. For pets: Include spare leads, food, travel bowls, and copies of vet records and microchip details.
If you need to evacuate Leaving early is always the safest option — but you’ll need to be ready to go.
Identify which route: you’ll take to leave and have an alternative if the wind changes direction. Fill up your car: before conditions worsen — you may need to travel some distance and might not get back for several days. Turn off utilities: move portable gas bottles and other highly flammable items away from buildings, and lock up. If there is time and it’s safe to do so’, leave a note on the door letting emergency services/ neighbours know you have evacuated. Provide a mobile number for contact. Keep loved ones informed: post an update on social media or send a group message so people know you’re safe.
Preparation doesn’t stop at the farm gate. It’s about protecting your family, your animals, your business, and your livelihood.
A few hours spent planning now could save you months of heartache later.
We hope our community stays safe during this bushfire season, but if the unthinkable happens, reach out to RBS for additional support to navigate forwards. |
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Prepare your business for unexpected challenges with a Business Continuity Plan |
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Unexpected challenges can disrupt even the most prepared businesses, from bushfires and floods to economic shocks or operational interruptions. That’s why having a Business Continuity Plan is so important. It helps you identify risks, protect your operations, and confidently respond to unexpected events.
At RBS, we can help our clients develop a tailored Business Continuity Plan. All you need to do is speak to your Business Financial Counsellor, and they can guide you through the process.
Why take action?Tailored support: Your plan is customised to the needs of your business. Expert guidance: Work with an experienced Counsellor to identify risks and practical solutions. Future-proofing: Safeguard your business against natural disasters, operational disruptions, and other emergencies.
What you’ll receiveA step-by-step, actionable Business Continuity Plan. Guidance on mitigating disruptions and strengthening resilience. Tools to improve confidence and reduce stress during emergencies. Practical strategies to help your business recover quickly.
Who can benefitProtect your business, your staff, and your peace of mind, it’s easier than you think with the right support.
Take the first step today: Contact your RBS Business Financial Counsellor to start developing your Business Continuity Plan.
📞 FREECALL 1800 836 211 🌐 www.ruralbusinesssupport.org.au |
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| | Emergency Preparedness and Recovery |
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| The Office for Small and Family Business reminds us that emergency preparedness is about ensuring you have the tools, resources and plans in place to respond effectively to an emergency or natural disaster.
It’s everyone’s responsibility to be aware of bushfire danger. For those living, working, or travelling in bushfire-prone areas, having a clear plan in place is essential.
To help you prepare, access valuable and reliable resources from the CFS: The Bushfire Safety Guide for Business — to help you prepare your people and your business for the next bushfire season. The Bushfire Survival Plan — outlining how you, your staff, volunteers, and clients will act before, during, and after a fire weather warning or bushfire event.
Take time now to review these guides and make sure your business is ready and resilient for the season ahead. |
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| Practical Steps to Cope with Fires, Floods and Other Natural Disasters |
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In times of disruption, whether from bushfires, floods, or other natural disasters, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
ifarmwell a program dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of rural Australians, has created a tip sheet Coping with Fires, Floods and Other Natural Disasters, offering practical guidance for rural Australians to strengthen their mental resilience and focus on what can be controlled.
The resource covers essential steps like staying hydrated and rested, reaching out for help, prioritising tasks, and staying connected with your community.
These resources are designed to help you feel more prepared and supported, giving you tools to bounce back and maintain wellbeing even when circumstances are challenging.
Access more practical tips here and explore strategies to help you navigate these difficult times with confidence. |
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| | Helpful Resources
Your Go-To Bushfire Safety Sources
SA Country Fire Service (CFS)
Stay up to date with fire danger ratings, warnings, and advice from the SA CFS. Find practical information to help safeguard your property and community.
NT Fire & Rescue Service
Be prepared this fire season with the NT Fire and Rescue Service’s Bushfire Safety guide. Learn how to protect your home, create a bushfire survival plan, and stay informed during an emergency.
Bushfires NT
Learn more about preparing for bushfires, your responsibilities, volunteer brigades and staying informed. Bushfires NT supports landholders to manage and mitigate bushfires and coordinates aerial firefighting across the Territory’s fire protection zones.
National Emergency Broadcaster
ABC Radio
Australia’s national Emergency Broadcaster, providing trusted, up-to-date information during bushfires and other emergencies. Make sure you tune into your local station. |
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Suggested Apps to Download |
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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, take the time to 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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| Farmers Supporting Farmers Through Tough Seasons |
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Launched on October 1st, the Weather It Together campaign is already making its mark across regional South Australia, helping farmers and their communities stay connected and supported through the toughest of seasons.
The Weather It Together statewide wellbeing campaign was built with South Australian farmers and farm families in mind. It’s led by ifarmwell with Primary Producers SA, Grain Producers SA, Livestock SA and SA Dairy farmers Association, and funded through the State Government’s $73 million Drought Support Package.
Weather It together is about small steps that make a big difference focusing on four simple behaviours that help in tough seasons. You don’t have to tackle this season on your own.
Keep connected. Connecting with our family, friends and communities is a simple way we can all look after ourselves and each other.
Focus on what you can control. Focusing on what you can control, letting go of what you can’t and prioritising what really matters, can help clear the path ahead.
Get active. Whether it’s a walk on the farm, lifting weights, or playing a team sport, exercise can lift your mood. And it’s even better with mates.
Ask for help. If there’s something on your mind, talking it through with a professional is a smart thing to do. It’s never too early or too late.
Weather It Together also acts as the umbrella platform, promoting other wellbeing programs that are being supported through the SA Government’s $73 million Drought Support Package though the Weather It Together online calendar.
To request free posters, flyers or digital materials for sheds, shops, clinics and clubrooms in your town or workplace, contact Campaign Coordinator Annabelle Ottens: [email protected]
Weather It Together Online Event Calendar |
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| Celebrating National Ag Day |
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Australia’s farmers don’t just work the land, they live it, love it, and fiercely protect it.
Through drought, fires, and floods, rising costs and relentless challenges, they remain grounded in something deeper: a commitment to feed and clothe the nation and nurture the land that sustains us all.
This past year, our producers have shown extraordinary resilience, grit and heart, as nearly every corner of rural Australia has been tested, from natural disasters, through to growing challenges from red and green tape, rising input costs and pressures driven by global and climate volatility.
This Ag Day, we are calling on all Australians, city and country, to Stand with the Land, because supporting our farmers means backing sustainability, community, innovation, and our shared future.
🌱 Stay up to date with National Ag Day events and celebrations by visiting agday.org.au to see how else you can get involved.
Join the community and honour the people and places behind every bite and bale. |
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| | | RBS representatives will be attending the following events:
Annual Livestock Industry Dinner – ADELAIDE – 19 Nov 2025
MLA Updates – ADL CONVENTION CENTRE – 20 Nov 2025
LIS Premier’s Mining Awards – SKYCITY ADL – 20 Nov 2025
AUSVEG Christmas Event – POORAKA – 21 Nov 2025
LIS GSSA Discovery Day – ADL CONVENTION CENTRE – 27 Nov 2025
LIS SA Exploration & Mining Conference – ADL CONVENTION CENTRE – 28 Nov 2025
Livestock SA Regional Round Up – PORT AUGUSTA – 4 Dec 2025
LIS AMEC Awards 2025 – CROWN TOWERS PERTH – 5 Dec 2025
Jamestown Christmas Pageant – JAMESTOWN – 7 Dec 2025 |
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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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