Rural & Agricultural
6 May, 2026
One-on-one drought support on offer
LOCAL farmers are being encouraged to access free one-on-one consultations to help take stock and develop a tailored drought management plan for their farm business.
Delivered by a panel of technical specialists, this program builds farmers’ capacity to manage drought conditions now and into the future.
More than 1000 farmers from across Victoria have accessed the service since it started in 2025, with more than 200 consultations in the Loddon Mallee and Grampians regions.
Director Agriculture Services, Kate Linden said farmers could choose the focus of the consultation session and nominate their preferred consultant from a list of specialists from across the state.
“All farm businesses are different and require personalised and tailored support, which is why we have made sure that our technical experts cover a wide range of drought management topics,” Ms Linden said.
“Specialists include farm business and financial advisers, livestock nutritionists, soil, water and pasture specialists and veterinarians.
“Any farm business, anywhere in the state, can access two consultations, up to three hours each (face-to-face or online), followed by a check-in phone call.”
Consultant Paige Cross from Cross Country Management has supported a range of farm businesses from across the state through the service, with a focus on business and financial planning.
“In our consultations we work alongside farmers to map out potential scenarios, helping them to make confident, data-informed decisions for whatever might come next,” Ms Cross said.
For more information about the Farm Advisory Service, register on the Agriculture Victoria website or email drought.support@agriculture.vic.gov.au; drought support information is also available by phoning 136 186.
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