Navigating financial stress: The highs and lows of farming

Vibrant rural communities are at the heart of South Australia’s identity and prosperity. For those who work the land in Australia, farming is a livelihood steeped in tradition, family, and a deep connection to place. The passion for livestock and the land, the commitment to nurturing crops and animals, it runs through generations - creating a life that many couldn’t imagine being without. These regional communities survive and thrive through sheer resilience, with primary producers and small family-owned businesses meeting adversity with strength and adaptability. Unfortunately, unpredictable seasons, fluctuating markets and cashflow pressures can, at times, leave even the most experienced feeling overwhelmed.

Act early: Do not wait for a crisis

It often starts quietly. When debts begin to mount, it’s easy to push worries to the back of your mind, hoping things will improve with the next season or a change in the weather. Bills pile up on the kitchen table or languish in the mailbox, phone calls from creditors become harder to answer, and the stress slowly builds until it feels unsurmountable. Many farmers do find themselves juggling the demands of daily life, caring for the land, supporting family, and staying connected to their community, while financial pressures simmer beneath the surface, waiting for a rainy day.

In these moments, it’s common to feel isolated or be unsure of where to turn. The temptation to delay action can be strong, especially when the next steps aren’t clear, or stress levels are high.

Reaching out early, whether to a trusted adviser, a mentor or a support service, can make all the difference. Early intervention opens the door to practical help, confidential advice and a wider range of solutions. It’s not just about avoiding crisis; it’s about regaining control, reducing stress and giving yourself the best chance to move forward with confidence.

Trusted support every step of the way

We all have areas where our skills and experience shine, whether it’s managing crops, caring for livestock, or making decisions that keep the farm running from day to day. But when it comes to complex financial pressures or unexpected setbacks, no one should be expected to have all the answers. The realities of farming mean that challenges can arise from any direction, and sometimes the best next step is to reach out for support.

There are services designed to help with financial planning, negotiating with creditors, and looking after wellbeing, so you can focus on what you do best and get the guidance you need in those tough areas. Support is available through:

PIRSA FaB Mentors: Family and Business Mentors who understand rural life and can offer practical advice, emotional support, and help with navigating difficult conversations.

Rural Financial Counsellors from Rural Business Support: Specialists who provide confidential financial counselling, help with budgeting, and guidance through negotiations with banks and creditors.

ifarmwell: An online resource tailored for farmers, offering tools and strategies to support mental health and resilience.

What is farm debt mediation

In some circumstances, formal mediation may be required when negotiating the repayment of farm finance. In regional South Australia, mediation is designed to be a safeguard: creditors must not take enforcement action, such as repossessing property or forcing a sale, without first offering mediation. farm debt mediation is a structured and confidential process that brings farmers and creditors together with an independent mediator to work through financial challenges. The aim is to create a fair and supportive environment where both sides can discuss their situation openly and seek practical solutions that help farmers stay on the land where possible, while creditors are be reassured that all options for recovery have been discussed and considered.

The process is designed to be accessible and focused on finding a way forward, the Small Business Commission SA assigns an impartial mediator and supports the confidential process from start to finish.

"(Farm debt mediation) is a great option that helps you work with your bank if the relationship has broken down, and you need that assistance"

Tim Modra, PIRSA FaB Mentor

How it works

Farm debt mediation is designed to bring everyone involved in a financial dispute together around the table. An independent mediator guides the conversation, helping both sides talk openly about what has led to the situation and what matters most to them. The mediator isn’t there to take sides, provide legal advice, or impose a decision. Instead, their role is to facilitate a constructive discussion, making sure everyone has the chance to be heard.

You don’t have to face these conversations alone. Farmers are encouraged to bring a trusted support person, such as a Rural Financial Counsellor or FaB Mentor, so there is someone by their side throughout the process. This can make it easier to navigate difficult topics, explore a wider range of solutions, and feel more confident during mediation.

The goal is to help parties find a practical outcome that all can accept, rather than forcing a solution upon them. With the mediator’s help, the conversation stays focused and respectful, making it easier to explore options and reach an agreement that works for everyone.

Weather it together: Practical support for wellbeing

When farming life gets tough, it’s always important to remember that support is within reach, whether it’s practical advice, confidential mediation, or wellbeing initiatives like “Weather it together”.

Led by Associate Professor Kate Gunn and the ifarmwell team at the University of South Australia (UniSA), “Weather it together” was created to help South Australian farming communities navigate the ups and downs of life on the land. Developed with farmers, for farmers, the campaign highlights simple, practical steps that can make a real difference to wellbeing, whatever the season brings. It’s a reminder that while tough times are part of farming, you don’t have to face them alone.

“Farmers are used to solving problems – they’ve done so for generations – but no one should feel they have to face tough times alone. This campaign provides friendly reminders about the value of focusing on what you can control, staying active, lifting each other up and sharing the load.”

Associate Professor Kate Gunn

At its heart are four simple behaviours that can make a real difference to wellbeing:

Keep connected

Connecting with family, friends and communities is a simple way we can all look out 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 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. It’s even better with mates.

Ask for help

If there is 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” is supported by the South Australian Government’s Drought Support Package, Primary Producers SA (PPSA), Grain Producers SA (GPSA), Livestock SA, and the South Australian Dairy Farmers’ Association.

Ready to take the first step?

If you're ready to take the next step, here are some trusted supports and resources available to South Australian farmers:

For confidential farm debt mediation services and dispute resolution visit the Small Business Commission or free call 1800 072 722.

The Weather it together website offers a range of online tools and wellbeing strategies developed for farmers.

Reach out to a Family and Business Mentor for practical advice and emotional support in your region.

Rural Business Support offers confidential financial counselling for farmers and rural, regional and remote small family businesses. Reach out via their website or call 1800 836 211.