McLaren Vale is one of four new regions to benefit from more than $1 million allocated as part of the Farm Business Resilience Program.

This will grow the reach of a transformative program aimed at boosting drought resilience amongst South Australian viticulturalists and vegetable growers.

The Farm Business Resilience Program is part of the Future Drought Fund.

The program is jointly funded by the federal and state governments to build the strategic management capacity of primary producers to prepare for and manage risk, adapt to a changing climate, and improve their economic, environmental and social resilience.

The program is sector-led and provides tailored industry-specific learning and development to maximise the benefits to participants.

Under the Farm Business Resilience Program, the Wine Grape Council of South Australia (WGCSA) successfully delivered the GrowStrong Program for wine grape growers in Langhorne Creek, the Riverland, and the Limestone Coast last year.

Through the program, a further $1,021,000 has been allocated to WGCSA to deliver the program to four new regions: the Adelaide Hills, Barossa, Clare, and McLaren Vale.

The program will also provide follow up support for past participants.

Through the program, $210,900 has also been allocated to AUSVEG SA to continue delivery of tailored training for South Australian vegetable growers.

This program provides growers with an immersive training experience packed with practical tools and invaluable knowledge that can equip their farm business to meet the demands of vegetable growing in the immediate and long-term future.

The Farm Business Resilience Program offers a suite of options to growers including:

• Business masterclasses and training delivered in region.
• Farm business fitness checks with support to develop a ‘plan on a page’ or update an existing business plan.
• Support to build skills in business strategy and decision-making, drought and risk management, natural resource management, and personal and social resilience.

For more information on the Farm Business Resilience Program SA, visit the PIRSA website.

State Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven says the business of farming is becoming increasingly challenging due to the impacts of climate challenges, including drought. 

“Preparing for the future and building resilience so farmers can be better equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to tackle these challenges, is key to ensuring the sustainability of South Australia’s viticulture and vegetable industries and regions.

“I encourage growers in these sectors to make the most of this opportunity to build on their skills and better equip their businesses for the future.“