As small businesses in rural communities continue to feel the financial impact of drought, Rural Business Support (RBS) are now offering a new Small Business Financial Counselling (SBFC) program.

Based on the successful Rural Financial Counselling Service business model, which RBS delivers in South Australia and the Northern Territory, the SBFC program aims to assist eligible small businesses to understand their financial position, then identify options and implement plans to improve their viability.

The program is free, independent and confidential for eligible small businesses who have been impacted by drought.

RBS financial counsellors can provide support with:

  • Considering different options to manage financial issues
  • Developing budgets and cash flows
  • Negotiating with creditors
  • Accessing dispute resolution services
  • Connecting with broader professional advice and support
  • Applying for government and community grants, programs or schemes

RBS has Small Business Financial Counsellors available under this program to provide support to eligible businesses in SA and NT up until 30 June 2021.

To be eligible for the drought support program a small business needs to:

  • Employ 19 or fewer people
  • Be experiencing financial hardship, or at imminent risk of financial hardship
  • Be located in a drought-affected area

For further information about the Small Business Financial Counselling program please call 1800 836 211 to discuss eligibility and arrange an appointment. You can also download a fact sheet here.