Wheatbelt farm business managers are urged to register as soon as possible to avoid missing out on participating in the popular Planning for Profit workshops.
The free, one-day workshop, delivered by the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA), has been designed to build growers’ business acumen to optimise the season ahead.
DAFWA senior policy officer Christine Thompson said now was the time to do the workshop – before the break of the season.
“Planning for Profit gives participants analytical skills and tools to help them evaluate their position as the season progresses and, hopefully, give them an edge,” Ms Thompson said.
“Most growers would have done their budgets by now so they are in a great position to analyse their business plan for the year and how it could be improved.”
The Planning for Profit workshops are designed to assist growers to boost their bottom line by addressing the four key profit drivers: business costs, price, production and operating costs.
“That can mean a shift in thinking from getting the highest price to the most effective price for your business and a better understanding of how the cost of production affects pricing decisions and significant purchases,” Ms Thompson said.
“As the title of the workshop suggests, planning is a crucial component of a successful business, while at the same time, it is important to have the flexibility to make changes.
“A key component of Planning for Profit is to encourage growers to continually review their strategy and to adjust their plans as the season progresses and their situation becomes clearer.”
There is no prerequisite to attend the workshop and growers do not have to bring any business data or figures.
“We use a range of case studies to explore various scenarios and evaluate options, which past participants have found very enlightening,” Ms Thompson said.
“There has also been feedback that the workshops are most beneficial if all those involved in the business can attend, if possible.”
Planning for Profit workshops will be held for groups of more than six businesses. More information and registration forms about Planning for Profit and other Farm Planning Workshops is available at agric.wa.gov.au by searching for ‘workshops’ or freecall 1800 198 231.
Media contacts: Jodie Thomson/Megan Broad, media liaison +61 (0)8 9368 3937