2025 year in review

As 2025 comes to a close, it’s a timely opportunity to reflect on the challenges, progress and lessons experienced by farming communities across NSW. Throughout the year, RFCS NSW continued to walk alongside farmers, offering free, professional and confidential support, information and guidance.

This year in review revisits the key themes explored in our 2025 articles, conversations focused on financial awareness, planning ahead and building confidence to make informed decisions.

Financial health checks

Early in the year, we spoke about the value of stepping back to understand the full financial picture of a farm business. Our February financial health check article encouraged reflection on income, expenses, debt and cash flow, and how these align with both short- and long-term goals.

Key discussion points included:

• reviewing financial information and understanding current position

keeping business plans relevant and up to date

• setting realistic personal and business goals
• monitoring finances regularly to support timely decisions.

A strong message throughout was that farmers don’t need to work through these considerations alone. Rural Financial Counsellors are available to provide objective support and help farmers explore their options.

Planning ahead: tax time 2025

Building on this theme, RFCS NSW shared insights around early tax planning. The focus was on being prepared, keeping records organised, reviewing finances ahead of end of the financial year and reducing last-minute pressure.

Early preparation can ease stress, support clearer decision-making and help farmers feel more confident when speaking with accountants and advisors.

Taking control: managing debt

Managing debt was an important topic in 2025, particularly as rising costs and variable conditions continued to impact farm businesses. Mid-year discussions explored understanding loan structures, recognising true borrowing costs, engaging with lenders early and aligning repayments with business cycles.

The consistent message was that proactive communication and good information can help farmers feel more in control of their situation.

Supporting the next generation

One of the standout themes of 2025 was the increasing involvement of younger people in agriculture. We explored the value of including younger family members in financial conversations, business planning and succession discussions to support long-term viability.

Making professional appointments count

In June, RFCS NSW shared guidance on getting more value from meetings with accountants and financial professionals. Topics included knowing what information to bring, asking the right questions and maintaining regular reviews to stay informed year-round.

Negotiating with creditors and lenders

Later in the year, we discussed practical considerations when negotiating with creditors and lenders. Preparation, clear communication, accurate financial information and confirming arrangements in writing were recurring themes.

Accessing support and assistance

As the year wrapped up, RFCS NSW highlighted the importance of staying informed about available support options, including government assistance, concessional loans and disaster relief. Awareness of these options can provide reassurance and stability during challenging times.

Looking ahead at 2026

The key takeaways from 2025 are that preparation, communication and support matter. Farmers across Central and Southern NSW continued to demonstrate resilience and adaptability in the face of ongoing challenges.

As we move into 2026, RFCS NSW remains committed to providing trusted, confidential and practical support to help farmers make informed decisions for their businesses, families and futures.

Here’s to a strong year ahead.