The cost-of-living crisis isn’t just a city problem, it’s biting harder in the bush. According to the latest Mood of the Bush survey, two out of five regional residents are struggling to make ends meet, and barely one in ten feel comfortable with their finances.
In regional South Australia, 72% said reducing household bills and essential expenses is their top priority. That’s no surprise when you look at the price of fuel, insurance, power and farm inputs.
Every decision on the farm seems to come with another bill attached, and plenty of families are telling me they feel like they’re one breakdown away from being under real pressure.
This year’s Bush Summit 2025 put some clear ideas on the table and while governments don’t always move as quickly as we’d like, there’s hope if we keep making noise.
What the Bush Summit Called Out….
Match services in the regions with Adelaide- Health, childcare, and roads shouldn’t be second-class just because you live outside the city.
Cut the red tape strangling agriculture- Farmers are competitive by nature, but investment is stalling because rules and bureaucracy keep tying up capital.
Champion gas as a long-term baseload energy source- Not just a “transition” fuel, but part of keeping power prices under control so businesses can keep producing.
Fix the timing of drought assistance- As Grain Producers SA’s Peta Willmott said, farmers don’t want handouts, they want no or low-interest loans to help with cashflow when it matters most. Waiting years for funds tied to recovery doesn’t help when you need to get a crop in the ground now.
Support SA seafood and tourism- Amid algal blooms and tough trading conditions, the call was to keep visiting coastal towns and buying local seafood.
Create more opportunities for young people in the regions- If we want the next generation to stay, they need careers and community, not just a reason to leave.
Where Do We Go From Here…
64% of regional South Australians rank cost of living as their biggest concern, ahead of housing (24%), healthcare (19%) and energy prices (17%).
Compare that to the city, and it’s clear we’re carrying a heavier load.
There are things families can do right now to take the pressure off…
- Get your budgets in order- Even if it feels confronting, it’s better to know the numbers than bury your head in the sand.
- Talk to your bank and advisers early- When cashflow is tight, timing is everything. Having a plan makes you more “bank ready” when you need support.
- Think succession sooner, not later- Don’t wait for a health scare or a crisis, those conversations are easier in the good times.
- Lean on your networks- Accountants, agronomists, lawyers, financial advisers and your neighbours all play a role.
The Bottom Line…
We’ve weathered droughts, floods, fires and financial shocks before. But we can’t ignore that costs are rising faster out here than in the city, and that makes planning all the more important.
If the cost-of-living crunch is weighing on your family or your business, now is the time to act.
If you would like help to get your documentation in order for securing finance or preparing for your annual review, I encourage you to contact me on 08 8253 2906 or email info@financialservicessa.com.au and let’s talk through your options before the next season rolls in.
