Victorian red meat producers affected by recent bushfires can now access free one-on-one support from a local farm management consultant through a partnership between the Victorian Government and Meat & Livestock Australia.

The ‘Back to Business’ initiative, which is being co-ordinated by Agriculture Victoria with financial support from MLA, will provide fire-affected red meat producers with expert advice to develop a strategic recovery plan.

Producers will have access to an experienced consultant who has an in-depth understanding of livestock farming systems from an integrated technical and financial perspective.

During the sessions, producers will be given tailored support to assess their current situation, work through the key issues and opportunities, and prioritise what actions to take.

All red meat producers, including sheep, cattle and goat, who have been affected by the recent bushfires are eligible to apply.

This program is one of several activities the Labor Government is delivering to support farmers to recover from the fires. Visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/bushfires to find out more.

For more information on the ‘Back to Business’ program or to register your interest, please contact the Victorian state co-ordinator Lyndon Kubeil at Agriculture Victoria on (03) 5761 1649 or lyndon.kubeil@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

“The fires over summer have been devastating for many regional Victorians, and especially our farmers – that’s why we’re doing everything we can to back our primary producers,” Victorian Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes said.

“I encourage anyone who needs assistance to get in touch and get the support they need.”

Meat & Livestock Australia managing director Jason Strong said he hoped the project will help producers to rebuild their businesses.

“We understand that each situation is likely to be very different and so the program that has been developed has flexibility to meet the needs of individuals.”