Farmers, wine grape growers and winemakers across South Australia will benefit from $300 million worth of no and low-interest loans from a Hurn Liberal Government, if elected in March.
The Rural Financing Fund will be a formal structure established to deliver concessional financial support to primary producers impacted by severe drought, natural disasters and extraordinary market disruption.
Under the Liberal plan, those eligible will be able to apply for loans of up to $250,000 on a maximum term of 10 years. Loans will be interest-free for the first two years, followed by an interest rate of 2.41%, much lower than the current RIC rate of 5.14%.
Two support streams will immediately be delivered, sharing in the funding pool of $300 million.
1) Drought Support Loans to support farmers across our entire state, who are battling challenges with the drought and enable their businesses to recover.
2) Wine Industry Support Loans for wine grape growers and winemakers needing support for operating capital or to restructure, diversify or transition their land to remain viable.
These loans will be used by our primary producers to ensure the long-term viability of key regional industries who need support.
State Liberal Leader and local Member for Schubert, Ashton Hurn, said her team will always stand shoulder to shoulder with regional South Australia.
“We understand the pressure farmers and the wine industry are under right now, and just how tough things have become – I see it first-hand here in the Barossa,” Mrs Hurn said.
“Many are lying awake at night worrying about their livelihoods, their families and the future of their farms, and are being forced to make extremely difficult decisions.
“This fund is about backing them in – providing immediate, practical support when they need it most, and showing them they’re not alone.
“Supporting regional communities right across our State and the farmers and growers who drive our economy is fundamental to what we stand for.”
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Nicola Centofanti, said primary producers often feel like they are forgotten, as they continue to battle severe drought conditions, natural disasters, and extraordinary market conditions.
“Diversifying land use isn’t just about surviving tough seasons, it’s about creating growth opportunities for the next generation,” Dr Centofanti said.
“By supporting diversification, we’re helping producers unlock new income streams and secure their long‑term future.
“This policy is a direct result of having listened to the real needs of farmers and growers, and the Liberal team consistently advocating on their behalf for years.
“From grape growers in the Riverland to cattle farmers from the Mid North and grain growers in the Eyre Peninsula, a Hurn Liberal Government will have your back, and ensure our regions are supported for years to come.”
Member for Chaffey, Tim Whetstone, said primary production in his region has been pushed to breaking point.
“Chaffey has copped it from every angle,” Mr Whetstone said.
“Growers south of the Riverland and into the Upper Mallee have endured some of the harshest drought conditions in the State.
“At the same time, our wine grape industry has been hammered by oversupply, rising input costs and a collapse in prices. For many producers, growing wine grapes is no longer economically viable.”
Mr Whetstone said the industry underpins hundreds of small businesses across the region, from transport operators to hospitality.
“When the grape price tanks, the whole community feels it,” Mr Whetstone said.
“The Fund gives growers right across our district options. It provides the capital needed to transition to more profitable varietals, alternative horticulture, new crops or whatever the market is demanding. It will also help our Mallee farmers with critical cashflow to begin recovery from the drought.
“A Hurn Liberal Government understands country regions. This is about giving producers the flexibility to adapt and remain viable.”
