One-on-one support for drought affected producers

28 April 2026

Victorian 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.

Over 1200 farmers from across Victoria have accessed the Farm Advisory Service, giving the program an average satisfaction rating of 9.5 out of 10.

Director Agriculture Services Kate Linden said farmers can 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.

‘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 2 consultations, up to 3 hours each (face-to-face or online), followed by a check-in phone call’, Ms Linden said.

What you can expect from a consultation

Paige Cross, Cross Country Management

‘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.

‘We’re here to provide unbiased and practical support, whether that’s working through a cashflow budget, planning for feed and water, or navigating grants and service providers, so farmers can focus on what will make the biggest difference to their business.

‘It’s about helping farmers feel supported, reduce decision fatigue, and make choices that set them up for a sustainable path forward.’

Kylie Holmes, NEX Business Farming Wellness

‘Regardless of the size of the business, this service creates space for personalised guidance to help reassess, plan and move forward with confidence.

‘We work alongside farmers to develop a practical drought management plan tailored to their goals and the resources they have available.

‘Farmers don’t have to face these challenges alone, and having a specialist beside them can make all the difference’.

Adam Jenkins, Rural People Co.

'For a lot of people, it's been the first time they've reached out to a consultant, and it's been a chance to pause for 2 to 3 hours over a cup of tea and walk through their business and understand what their priorities are.’

'Recovery is just as important as managing the drought itself, and we can work together on practical steps they can take, to help them now as well as into the future.’

‘It doesn't matter where you are and where you’ve landed - we can draw a line in the sand and move forward with a positive frame.’

This program is part of the Victorian Government’s $146.5 million drought support package.

Learn more and register by visiting Farm Advisory Service, or email drought.support@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Find more information about available drought support visit Drought support or call 136 186.

Media contact: Maida Anderson

Phone: 0431 626 178