Horticulture producers whose finances may be wilting have access to free and independent advice through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA).

QRIDA’s Farm Debt Restructure Office administers the Farm Business Analysis Assistance (FBAA) program. FBAA connects producers with financial experts who can review their business and offer recommendations to help it to thrive.

FDRO Manager, Daniel Elder said extreme weather conditions or adverse market conditions could push farm balance sheets into challenging situations.

“Over the past 12 months, we’ve witnessed many parts of Queensland inundated by floodwaters, and before that over 60 per cent of the state was in drought,” he said.

“We are also still seeing ripples of COVID across the ag sector which could take years to recover from and not to mention on going biosecurity threats.”

The program has lifted some of the weight off producer’s shoulders who needed support to move forward with confidence in their rural enterprise.

“Producers have told me the professional assistance provided was essential in helping them put their plans on paper and regain support from their lender,” he said.

“Others have told me the process has given them the confidence to question their activities and focus on the key drivers of their business.”

When a producer engages with the FBAA program, they have the opportunity to choose an independent consultant from QRIDA’s panel.

This consultant spends up to eight weeks communicating with the producer to review their business and identify any underlying problems at no cost to the producer. The consultant will then provide their findings and recommendations in a comprehensive report at the discretion of the producer.

To find out more about how FBAA could help you visit qrida.qld.gov.au or call 1800 623 946.