A 6-step guide to becoming a Farm Stay Operator in the Gulf Savannah Region

A market ripe for farm stays

Agritourism is a rapidly growing market across Australia, which is hardly surprising given the unique country lifestyle experiences visitors can enjoy and the economic benefits farms stays bring to farmers and local communities.

The Gulf Savannah region is perfectly positioned to tap into the demand for farm stays given our vast agricultural industry, deep historical and cultural connections, and access to sought after outback landscapes that draw people in from across Australia and the globe.

Over half of visitors to our region have either enjoyed a farm stay experience or expressed a keen interest in doing so. This shows that people are ready and willing to visit and spend more on these unique experiences. The market is ripe for new agritourism ventures, whether it’s accommodation, country cooking, farm activities, eco-adventures, nature-experiences, or all of the above.

With the high level of support from local and state governments specifically targeted at farmers looking to diversify into agritourism, now is the perfect time to start your farm stay. This guide has been developed with farmers in mind, making it easy to understand the key steps involved and where to find the right support.

A rewarding experience

Farm stays offer a wonderful and rewarding way for farmers to diversify their income, share their unique country lifestyle, and tap into the growing demand for more outback, ecotourism and nature-based experiences.

Farm stays are not just a business opportunity – they are a unique way to connect with travellers and educate them on farming life, share an authentic piece of outback living, and offer adventures they won’t find anywhere else.

Many farmers who have already established a farm stay in our region have shared the many benefits they’ve experienced. While it requires some planning, support is available, and once your business is up and running, the rewards are abundant.

It’s easy to get involved

Simply use this guide and follow the 6 steps to starting a farm stay. The guide will talk you through what a farm stay is, the market opportunity, what the benefits are to you, setting up your business, other considerations such as regulations and local laws, and marketing your business. You can contact GSD at any time for further mentoring and support to guide you through this process.