RFCS NSW March Newsletter
CEO update
What a difference the world has become in just over one month since I last wrote to you via this newsletter.
Bottom line is our cost-of-living crisis has worsened since the USA/Israel – Iran war commenced on 28 February. Diesel fuel, the life blood of agriculture supply chains, is now around $3 per litre. This is an increase of about 70 per cent since the war commenced. Urea, the most widely used nitrogen fertiliser in Australian agriculture, has increased to around $700 USD/t. It was just over $400 USD/t one month ago. On 17 March the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash (interest) rate by 25 basis points to 4.1 per cent. This was in response to rising (over the past nine months) inflation, which came in at 3.8 per cent or 0.8 per cent above the RBA's 2–3 per cent band.
It will be difficult for many farm businesses to absorb these relatively sudden (and likely to continue) high-cost increases. The South-west, Riverina, Murray regions are now in their second season of drought. These farmers have been absorbing additional costs for water and fodder at higher-than-normal rates. For example, the temporary water allocation price in the Murrumbidgee is currently around $500/ML. This is about $100/ML higher than this time 12 months ago. The shining light has been livestock prices, particularly sheep and cattle, which continue to remain high. These have mitigated cost increases for relevant farmers for many months now. However, it is unlikely these will cover the latest wave of cost increases for many people.
Last week our organisation adopted an essential travel only policy. This means where possible our counselling sessions will be delivered online, via telephone or at a location where travel is minimised for the client and counsellor. Outreach will be restricted to events previously paid for and/or locked in with organisers prior to the policy. Where possible, staff will work from home. These initiatives have been adopted to prioritise fuel for our farmers, mitigate the additional fuel cost to our business and ensure our staff do not get stranded somewhere without fuel. The policy will operate until our fuel supplies and prices come back to a relatively normal level.
The theme of this newsletter is drought support. There are many state and federal government initiatives available including the RFCS program. We thought we would outline what these are given the continued drought in southern NSW and the significant interest in the recently opened NSW Government's Drought Relief Loan.
Craig Hough
Chief Executive Officer
Making drought decisions with confidence
As drought conditions continue to impact southern and central NSW, the state and Australian governments have announced additional support for farmers, including a range of loans designed to help prepare, manage and recover.
These loans are a welcome and important part of the support available. But for many farmers, there's a natural hesitation: is taking on more debt the right move for my business right now?
Before making that decision, it's worth taking a step back. Start with your business, not the loan. Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) NSW encourages farmers to first understand their full financial position and explore all available pathways before committing to new debt.
That's because the right decision isn't just about accessing finance. It's about making sure that decision strengthens your business in the long term.
Catch up with the NSW Drought Coordinator in your area
Farmers and rural communities are encouraged to keep an eye and ear out for opportunities to meet NSW Drought Coordinator Ray Willis as he continues travelling across the state.
Ray was appointed late last year to strengthen support for landholders most impacted by drought. Since then, he's been on the ground visiting regional towns, properties and communities, speaking directly with farmers, councils, service providers and industry stakeholders. These conversations and insights are being fed back to the NSW Government to help improve and better target available support.
Ray's role has recently been extended through to the end of the year and expanded to include a stronger focus on Western NSW, following additional drought support announced in February. With more visits planned in the months ahead, local landholders are encouraged to take the opportunity to connect, share their experiences and raise any challenges they're facing at
Flood affected farmers encouraged to report impact
Recent rainfall across the region in late February–early March delivered much-needed relief for many drought-affected landholders, but resulted in flooding and new challenges on farm particularly in Western NSW.
Flood-affected primary producers are encouraged to record damage by completing the NSW Government's Primary Industries Natural Disaster Damage Assessment (PiNDDA) survey. It should include damage to infrastructure, livestock and crops, with the option to upload photos.
The information is critical in helping government and industry understand the scale of impact, guide recovery planning and direct resources where they're needed most.
Meantime, the NSW RAA this week announced financial loan and transport subsidy support for primary producers hard hit by last November's severe storms in the state's Far West as well as Blayney, Cabonne and Gilgandra LGAs.
For assistance, contact your Local Land Services on 1300 795 299, or visit the LLS website for flood recovery resources. For free and confidential business recovery and planning guidance, reach out to your local RFCS NSW Rural Financial Counsellor.
Farmers urged to report fuel access issues
Farmers experiencing difficulty accessing fuel for essential operations and transport are encouraged to report impacts as supply pressures continue to emerge.
Recent global events have disrupted fuel supply chains, with flow-on effects expected to tighten availability in Australia in the coming weeks. While national reserves remain stable for now, shipment delays and reduced refining capacity in Asia are impacting supply and driving up prices. Industry bodies warn fuel constraints in the regions are already placing pressure on farm operations, with potential risks to food production and animal welfare if conditions worsen.
Farmers unable to secure fuel are encouraged to share details of their situation with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry at
Where possible, include:
- Location
- Type of fuel affected
- Impact on operations
- Immediate or flow-on effects
This information is critical to ensuring the impacts on agriculture are clearly understood and prioritised as governments and industry respond to evolving supply challenges.
Meantime the federal government has announced a Fuel Supply Taskforce and National Food Supply Chain assessment to advise on practical steps to strengthen preparedness for disruptions to food production and supply chains.
Welcoming new faces to strengthen financial counselling support
Angela Lonergan joins as a new Rural Financial Counsellor serving the Murrumbidgee and Berrigan regions. Previously Angela worked in business and people management in healthcare for over 13 years, largely based in Western Victoria. Upon her family's return to her home region, Angela pursued study in Financial Counselling, while managing the financials and operations for a small plumbing business. Angela is passionate about small business and her goal is to empower farmers with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions, strengthen business resilience, and secure a more sustainable future for their farms and families.
Toni Scalco also joins as a Financial Counsellor with the Financial Counselling Service serving the Illawarra Shoalhaven region. Toni brings more than 30 years experience across allied health and community services. Her background spans practice management in the optical industry and frontline roles supporting individuals and families through crisis, with a strong focus on community wellbeing.
Rounding out the new additions, Financial Counsellor Nita Wolf has joined as part of a new partnership between Grand Pacific Health and the Rural Financial Counselling Service NSW. The collaboration will deliver free, confidential financial counselling in Wagga Wagga and Young, helping people manage financial pressures and build longer-term resilience. More details to come.
The team is further strengthened by the appointment of Marketing and Communications Officer Nicky McMillan, who brings broad experience across media, marketing, communications and government, along with first-hand knowledge of farming through living on a property in the Riverina.
RFCS NSW supports community conversation at Mudgee screening
Rural Financial Counsellor Rebecca White recently attended a community screening of Just a Farmer at Mudgee Town Hall, hosted by Lifeline Central West and the Sunrise Rotary Club of Mudgee.
Around 50 locals came together for the powerful film, which highlights the realities of rural life and encourages important conversations around mental health and the challenges faced by farming families. The event provided a valuable opportunity for connection and support within the community, with Rebecca engaging with attendees and local services.
AgriWomen Connect brings learning and connection to the Riverina
Rural Financial Counsellors Marine Morton, Leanne Bode and Rhianna Cameron recently attended the AgriWomen Connect conference at Whitton Malt House, a two-day event focused on leadership, innovation and creativity of women in food production and farming.
It included a tour of the Southern Cotton Gin, offering insight into the cotton production process, along with presentations from industry leaders including the story behind the development of the Whitton Malt House.
Day two featured practical agribusiness workshops covering time management and business promotion, alongside updates on sheep and goat eID. The event provided a valuable opportunity for our local Rural Financial Counsellors to connect with others in the sector and gain insights to help them support local farming communities.
Supporting local producers at Morundah
Rural Financial Counsellor Scott Boyle recently attended the Morundah Producers Support Day, a relaxed, drop-in event connecting local farmers with practical services and support in response to current seasonal conditions.
Hosted by Murray Local Land Services, the event brought together a range of service providers offering advice on seasonal updates, recovery and assistance programs and financial and business support along with technical ag advice, animal health and production, agistment management and access to water quality testing and feed test kits.
The day provided an opportunity for Scott to connect with industry stakeholders and farmers, and promote the free and confidential services and support provided by the RFCS NSW.
Connecting with Growers and Community in Bland Shire
Rural Financial Counsellor Daniel Brown recently attended the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Grains Research Update in West Wyalong. The event – one of many across the state – brought together growers and industry professionals to share the latest developments and seasonal outlooks impacting farm businesses. Look out for further one-day updates in July and August.
Dan also connected with locals at the Bland Shire Community Expo in Ungarie, where community members had the opportunity to engage with a range of organisations, learn about available services, and explore local programs and support.
These events provide valuable opportunities to stay informed, build connections, and ensure rural communities are aware of the support available to them including that of the RFCS NSW.
Sheep Industry Insights at National Poll Dorset Conference in Wagga
Rural Financial Counsellor Rhianna Cameron attended the National Poll Dorset Conference in Wagga this month.
Held for the first time in five years, the conference brought together producers from across Australia and New Zealand to share knowledge, innovation and the latest technology shaping the sheep industry.
Rhianna appreciated the opportunity to engage with producers, gain insights into current industry trends, and strengthen connections within the livestock sector.
RFCS NSW at Riverina field days
We're at the Riverina Field Days this weekend, and we'd love to see you.
Drop in and chat with a member of our team whether it's to just say hi or get some information.
Our Rural Financial Counsellors provide support to primary producers facing financial pressure, or planning ahead. RFCS NSW services range from business planning and budgeting, managing risk, succession planning or navigating bank reviews to accessing drought support and other government assistance. Our team offers free, confidential and independent guidance tailored to your situation. Come and see us at the Field Days at site 25.
Riverina Roadshow to deliver drought support in Cootamundra
Rural Financial Counsellor Marine Morton will attend the upcoming Riverina Roadshow and drought drop-in session in Cootamundra on 8 April, supporting local landholders to access practical advice and services.
Hosted by Riverina Local Land Services, the event will feature presentations from Charles Sturt University researchers on sheep confinement feeding systems and cereal crop performance, alongside short updates on available LLS services.
The session will conclude with a drought support drop-in, giving farmers the opportunity to receive one-on-one advice and connect directly with service providers about available assistance. The event aims to equip landholders with practical tools and support to navigate ongoing seasonal challenges.
Farm Succession Planning Workshop in Forbes
Planning for the future of a family farming business can be complex, especially with rising costs and ongoing sector pressures. To support local families, the Rural Financial Counselling Service NSW is hosting a practical workshop, Reframing Succession: From Transaction to Transition.
Presented by succession planning specialist James Benson, the session will explore practical strategies to help families start the conversation, manage change and plan for a successful transition between generations.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with local Rural Financial Counsellor Dan Brown, who provides free and confidential support on succession planning, business resilience and accessing available assistance. Places are limited so be sure to secure your place early.
NSW Farmers succession planning seminars
NSW Farmers is hosting a series of Succession Planning Seminars across the state, helping farming families navigate one of the most important, and complex, decisions for their future. Delivered in partnership with Cater & Blumer Solicitors, SproutAg and WFI, the sessions cover key topics including starting the succession conversation, legal and tax considerations, managing fairness across families, and planning for a smooth transition. Find out if there's a seminar near you.
2-day farm business workshop in Holbrook
A practical two-day Farm Business Workshop is coming to Holbrook in May, helping producers better understand and use their financial data to drive decision-making. Presented by Paul Blackshaw of Meridian Agriculture, the hands-on workshop will guide participants through analysing their own farm data, including understanding the difference between tax and real financial performance, and developing meaningful business benchmarks.
Curious about carbon farming and unlocking a new income stream?
More NSW landholders are exploring carbon farming and natural capital opportunities to diversify income and build more resilient farm businesses.
By reducing emissions (abatement) or storing carbon in soils and vegetation (sequestration), carbon farming can create new revenue streams, improve productivity, and position your business for emerging market requirements. Options like the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme or carbon insetting can deliver financial returns while supporting climate-positive outcomes.
To get started, explore the free Natural Capital online course from Local Land Services, offering a practical introduction to carbon farming and emissions.
For a deeper dive, the Carbon Profit Planning Workshop in Corowa (30 April and 14 May) will help you assess the feasibility of carbon and biodiversity projects on your farm, with tailored insights, economic modelling, and expert guidance. Spots are limited (10 places, $110), so book early. For more information, visit the LLS website or contact Natural Capital Advisor Emily Wilson on 0484 117 155.
Fee-free agriculture and agribusiness training
A range of fee-free training opportunities are available for people living or working in NSW, helping to build skills in agriculture and agribusiness. Courses include Certificate IV and Diploma qualifications in Agriculture and Agribusiness, delivered through RuralBiz Training. Eligibility applies under the NSW Smart and Skilled program and places are limited.
The Resilience Project coming to Lockhart
Join The Resilience Project's Martin Heppell for an engaging and uplifting presentation on wellbeing. Blending humour with powerful storytelling, Martin will share practical, evidence-based strategies to support your mental health, along with insights into why prevention matters. The session will be held on Tuesday 28 April, 6:30–8:00pm at Lockhart Memorial Hall. This free event is tailored for adults, with limited tickets available.
Rural Financial Counselling Service Southern Region | ABN: 57 649 413 936
256 Kincaid Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650
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