Agriculture Victoria is inviting farm business owners and managers to take part in a free online business program.
The innovative program supports farmers to build on their knowledge and skills to strengthen their farm business and be better equipped to manage the risks associated with a variable climate.
The online program, starting in February on Wednesdays, runs over six weeks and is suitable for livestock, grains, mixed farmers, horticulturalists and apiarists, with past participants rating the program very highly for satisfaction and benefits gained.
Project leader Kit Duncan-Jones said participants would improve their skills and knowledge to better prepare for and manage risk, adapt to change and strengthen their farm businesses.
"The course is designed to help farmers set and achieve their individual business goals and is relevant to those who are new to farming and young farmers, as well as more experienced farmers," Kit said.
The program will be made up of five sessions on key farm management topics, including:
Identifying and managing risks, strategic planning and setting business goals;
Financial management, budgeting and profitable decision making;
Managing people on farm, succession planning and farm safety;
Climate risk and natural resource management; and,
Business planning.
As part of completing the course, participants will be offered a one-on-one session with an experienced farm management consultant to review their business plan.
Mr Duncan-Jones said participants would be supported by Agriculture Victoria staff and farm business consultants from Rural People Co.
"Online delivery of the course allows farmers from anywhere in the state to participate, from the comfort of their own homes or workplace and without the added time commitment of travel.
"If you're a farmer who wants to better manage your business, strengthen your farm resilience to withstand future droughts and shocks, and set up your farm for success now and into the future – this is the program for you."
For more information, contact Sarah Clack on 0417 316 345 or at sarah.clack@agriculture.vic.gov.au
The Farm Business Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund and the Victorian Government's Future Agriculture Skills Capacity Fund.