The Farm Debt Mediation Scheme

Helping farmers with debt

The Farm Debt Mediation Scheme helps farmers and other primary producers struggling with debt. The scheme uses neutral and independent mediators to help farmers and their creditors work through debt issues.

The aim is to provide a negotiation process that is:

• structured
• confidential
• impartial.

This will help farmers and creditors agree on how to proceed.

Under the Farm Debt Mediation Act 2019, secured creditors must offer mediation before taking any debt enforcement action against farmers and eligible primary production businesses. Farmers can ask for mediation at any time.

The mediation scheme aims to promote the long-term viability and resilience of farm businesses. This will also help the primary sector as a whole. Helping farmers manage financial stress promotes positive mental health and resilience in rural communities.

Read everything about the Farm Debt Mediation Scheme here.