Farm Business Resilience Program enters phase 2

A program that provides business coaching, specialist advice, and peer-to-peer learning to farmers is entering its second phase.

The Farm Business Resilience Program has delivered more than 200 business plans for farmers so far, and eighteen farm businesses have already confirmed their participation in activities delivered through phase two.

The next part of the program will be delivered by the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA), in partnership with the TAS Farm Innovation Hub.

Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce said that the program was even more relevant ahead of what was predicted to be a dry summer.

“Tasmanian farmers are as good as it gets, but as we navigate these uncertain times, it’s important to have the supports in place should they be needed,” Mr Pearce said.

“We are building an even better Tasmania by giving our farmers the tools they need to prepare their business better to manage drought and climate variability, which will play an important role in future-proofing the industry.

“Our agriculture sector has never been more important; that’s why the Tasmanian Government is stepping up to back our farmers with this program.”

TIA Director Mike Rose said the program helps farmers consider risks such as drought, market disruption and other business challenges, and plan for a resilient and profitable future.

"This program is a practical way of supporting farmers and rural communities to build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to grow and thrive in a changing climate," Professor Rose said.

"Delivering the program alongside the TAS Farm Innovation Hub from within TIA allows us to bring together research, innovation and farmer engagement in a more connected way.

"That creates real opportunities to strengthen the support available to Tasmania's agricultural industry and help build more resilient farm businesses."

TAS Farm Innovation Hub director Sandra Knowles said a dedicated team is in place and the program is developing its first participant cohorts across Tasmania.

"Building on the learnings from Phase 1, we are working with experienced extension professionals, including Dairy Australia, while continuing to invest in training and capability development for those delivering the program,” Ms Knowles said.

"We're also pleased to be piloting the program on King Island in response to strong local interest, working with local partners to support farm businesses and ensure the program reaches producers across the state."

Farmers wanting to take part in the program can register their interest on the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania website.