Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) reviews

The RFCS has been regularly reviewed, both internally and independently, over the years to ensure the program remained fit for purpose and continued to meet the changing needs of clients.

2019 internal review of the RFCS Program

In 2019, the department undertook an internal review into the 2016 to 2020 RFCS Program. The review was informed by a significant public consultation process, interacting with approximately 150 stakeholders. The internal report was released in October 2019.

2014 Review of the RFCS Program

In May 2014, the Minister for Agriculture commissioned the National Rural Advisory Council (NRAC) with undertaking a review of the RFCS Program. NRAC’s report was released by the Minister for Agriculture on 10 November 2014.

Overarching Report of the 2012 RFCS Service Provider Performance Audits

In 2012, PricewaterhouseCoopers undertook performance audits of the 14 organisations delivering rural financial counselling services. Below is a summary of the audit findings and recommendations.

2009 Evaluation of the RFCS Program

In 2009 the department commissioned the Charles Sturt University to conduct an online survey of RFCS clients.

The aim of the survey was to evaluate client satisfaction with the RFCS, the appropriateness of referrals to other professional services, the extent of improvement in clients’ situations and changes in management practices as a result of interaction with the RFCS.

Overarching Report of the 2007 RFCS Service Provider Performance Audits

In 2007, Walter Turnbull undertook performance audits of the 16 organisations delivering rural financial counselling services. Below is a summary of the audit findings and recommendations.

2004 Review of the RFCS Program

In 2004, that National Rural Advisory Council reviewed the RFCS Program. The complete report can be downloaded as one PDF or individual sections can be downloaded.

Sections of the report:

The Way Forward

This report includes the executive summary from the 2004 Review report (above), the terms of reference for the review committee and the aims, objectives, outcomes and key principles for an enhanced RFCS Program.

2003 Acumen Alliance Performance Review and Audit

In 2003, Acumen Alliance completed a performance review of 24 rural financial counselling services. Below is a summary containing the publicly available information, of the review's findings and recommendations.

2000 Evaluation of the Rural Communities Program (RCP)

In 2000, the Social Sciences Centre of the Bureau of Rural Sciences (now ABARES) was commissioned to evaluate the RCP. The evaluation examined program performance and future directions and options for change.