New England-based primary producers have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, free of charge, at a practical workshop designed to help provide financial skills key to managing a farming business.
Hosted by the NSW Rabo Client Council, the Financial Skills Workshop – which is open to all farmers, not just Rabobank clients – will be held in Armidale on Friday 27 March.
The initiative – which provides farmers with an opportunity to both upskill and network –has been led and funded by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank, through its Rabo Client Councils, groups of innovative, forward-thinking farming clients who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and support a range of activities designed to make a meaningful impact on the vibrancy and resilience of rural Australia.
The complimentary, interactive workshop provides hands-on guidance on understanding financial statements and banking requirements and explores topics such as taxation versus management accounting, essential business management ratios and understanding key components of a business's financial profile.
Rabobank New South Wales state manager Toby Mendl said the workshop was designed "to equip farmers with financial skills and tools to help them manage their increasingly complex agricultural businesses".
Limited to 30 participants, the workshop will be delivered by director of Hudson Facilitation, Tony Hudson.
Mr Mendl said the workshop had been designed specifically for farm owners and managers, with the goal of increasing their awareness and understanding of the financial management requirements of their businesses.
"Even seasoned farmers might not completely understand all facets of financial reporting and banking requirements, or may wish to enhance their skills in business financial analysis," he said.
Mr Mendl said couples and families were encouraged to attend the workshop together to develop a shared understanding of financial reporting. "The sessions allow farming families to step away from daily commitments and strengthen their financial skills as a team," he said.
Rabobank's Rabo Client Council network is focussed on developing meaningful grassroots initiatives to help address key agribusiness and community challenges – including long-term industry capacity and agricultural education, environmental sustainability, rural/urban connection, natural disaster resilience, rural wellbeing and adaptation/disruption, Mr Mendl said.
Since the launch of the workshops in 2018, the Rabo Client Councils have extended this valuable learning opportunity to over 5,370 farmers across Australia and New Zealand, he said.
"Interested producers who wish to engage with other leading farmers and enhance their financial literacy and skills are encouraged to secure their place before registrations are fully allocated."
Workshop details:
- Friday, 27 March 2026 – 8.30am to 3.30pm (Armidale)
To register to participate, please visit the Rabobank Australia website, or click here.
Morning tea and lunch will be provided.
