Rural Business Support’s Small Business Financial Counselling (SBFC) program is a free, independent and confidential program to assist eligible small business owners in rural areas who have been impacted by drought, or bushfire and COVID-19. The program is modelled on the successful Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS), which has been supporting farmers and rural-related businesses for more than 30 years.

Small Business Financial Counsellors live and work in those areas that have been affected by drought or bushfire, so they understand firsthand the complex challenges that small business owners are facing. With the added impact of COVID-19, the Australian Government has allocated additional funding through the Regional Recovery Small Business Support Program to help eligible business owners find a way forward.

A small business financial counsellor can provide support with:

• Considering different options to manage financial issues
• Developing budgets and cash flows
• Negotiating with creditors
• Accessing dispute resolution services
• Connecting with broader professional advice and support
• Applying for government and community grants, programs or schemes