Members of the agriculture community attending Sheepvention from 2-3 August are encouraged to connect with Australian Government specialist lender, RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) to learn more about how low interest loans can help eligible farm businesses in tough times.
Agri Lending Specialists will be on site to discuss the range of RIC low interest loans available to help eligible farm businesses improve cash flow, manage debt, recover from significant disruptions, and strengthen their long-term viability and productivity.
The RIC team can also answer questions about the AgriStarter Loan to help first farmers and farm businesses undertaking succession arrangements to establish, grow or transition their operations.
RIC Chief Executive Officer, John Howard, said Sheepvention provides a valuable opportunity for producers to have practical conversations about the financial support available to strengthen their farm business and manage risk to prepare for future challenges.
"Many producers across Australia continue to navigate challenging seasonal conditions and rising operating costs, making it important to understand what support options may be available and consider them early," Mr Howard said.
"RIC is here to keep viable farmers farming. Whether you're managing the impacts of prolonged dry conditions, planning for future investment, or looking to strengthen your business through challenging periods, our Agri Lending Specialists will be on hand to discuss individual circumstances and explain eligibility requirements for RIC loans.
"Our role is to help producers understand whether a RIC loan may be suitable for their business and support them through the application process with confidence. We encourage anyone interested in learning more to stop by and start a conversation."
Visitors to Sheepvention can visit the RIC stand to discuss their individual circumstances and learn more about the Drought Loan, Drought Hardship Loan, Farm Investment Loan and AgriStarter Loan available to eligible farm businesses.
Sheepvention is one of Australia's premier livestock events, bringing together producers, agribusinesses and industry professionals to explore innovations, connect with suppliers and learn about developments in livestock and wool production.
For more information about RIC loans, visit ric.gov.au/loans
Find the RIC team in the Innovations Hub & Producers’ Market from 2–3 August 2026.
Media Contact: E media@ric.gov.au | M 0435 168 885
About RIC
RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) is an Australian Government farm business lender providing low-interest loans for farmers and farm-related small businesses in financial need to strengthen Australian agriculture. RIC loans can be used for management, recovery and future proofing following severe business disruption due to drought, natural disasters, biosecurity issues or other significant market events. RIC loans can also help farm businesses to establish farm businesses for first generation farmers or succession planning for next generation farmers. Since 1 July 2018, RIC has approved more than 3,600 loans valued at over $3.8 billion as at 30 June 2026.