Farm Household Allowance (FHA) is a critical support program designed to assist Australian farmers and their partners facing financial hardship. Whether due to unexpected weather conditions, illness, or market changes, FHA offers a safety net to help farming families regain stability. 

What is Farm Household Allowance?

FHA provides eligible farmers with income support, delivered at the same rate as the JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance, for up to 4 years within a 10-year period. This allowance can be utilized as needed and does not have to be claimed consecutively. In addition to income support, FHA offers access to a $10,000 Activity Supplement to fund skill development or financial advice, and up to $1,500 for a professional financial assessment. Recipients also receive a Health Care Card, providing further cost-of-living relief. 

How the Activity Supplement Can Help

The Activity Supplement is a significant part of the FHA program, designed to help farmers build resilience and improve their financial stability. The $10,000 supplement can be used for a wide range of activities, including accessing expert advice, training, and professional services that can enhance both on-farm and off-farm skills. For example, farmers can use the funds to hire agronomists, attend business courses, or seek financial planning advice. This support enables farming families to not only address immediate financial difficulties but also to build a stronger, more sustainable future. 

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility for FHA depends on meeting specific income and asset tests, with net farm and personal assets needing to be below $5.5 million and income must be below the cut-off for the JobSeeker Payment income test amount (see Cut-off points tables below). It’s essential not to self-assess eligibility but to apply and allow Services Australia to determine your qualification.