The Farm Finance Concessional Loans scheme was announced last week by NSW Primary Industries Minister Katrina Hodgkinson.

Eligible farmers will be able to access up to $650,000, with funding capped at $30 million per year for 2013-14 and 2014-15.

The scheme aims to help those farm businesses considered to be going through financial hardship, but are still viable long-term.

Rural Financial Counselling Service NSW southern region � Griffith and Leeton, rural financial counsellor Kevin McCrum, said most growers were aware the loans were available and encouraged them to check their eligibility.

"It is a reasonably complicated process, but for those that are eligible it will be worthwhile and a help for them," he said.

"The scheme certainly has its benefits ... every farmer has different circumstances as such, so for those that can receive the loans what it will do is help ease their interest payments."

The term of the loans is up to five years and loan recipients are required to fully repay or refinance their loan by the end of its term.

A 4.5 per cent interest rate has been set, but will be reviewed by the federal government every six months.

Mr McCrum said times were still tough for the shire's growers, but they were remaining positive.

"Broad-acre irrigation farmers have had a reasonably good rice season and it's the same for dryland cereal growers," he said.

Applications for the loans close on September 30.

For more information visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au or contact Mr McCrum on 6962 3812.

FACTS

-The loans are only available to refinance farm business-related debt. It does not include overdrafts or equipment loans.

-Successful applicants will need to provide satisfactory security.

-Loans of up to $650,000 will be available to refinance up to half or existing long-term commercial borrowings.

-Farmers are urged not to self assess, but to be aware of the strict time frame and application criteria. Assistance with the application is available by calling Kevin McCrum on 6962 3812 or 0448 642 444.