Aligning machinery cost structure with income volatility

 Peter Newman, Planfarm

Cropping in 2026 continues to be shaped by tight margins, and rising exposure to both input costs and seasonal risk. Now is the time for grain growers to pressure-test how machinery investment, labour use, and cost per hectare stack up against real income volatility across different rainfall zones. Businesses that align machinery replacement timing, labour intensity, and overall capital structure with margin scenarios, are better placed to protect cash flow and stay resilient through the cycle. This is about building a system where costs flex with performance, rather than amplifying seasonal risk.

Peter Newman is a Farm Business Consultant with Planfarm, based in Western Australia, and is widely recognised for his work at the intersection of agronomy and farm business performance. With extensive experience in broadacre cropping systems, he has built a strong reputation in practical on-farm decision making. Peter has been a key driver of the Planfarm Academy, helping growers and farm managers strengthen business capability alongside agronomic performance. He works closely with grain producers across WA and interstate, focusing on improving whole-of-business efficiency, cost control, and long-term profitability in variable seasonal conditions.

Date: Thursday 11 June, 2026
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 pm (AEST)
Venue: online
Cost: Free registration

GRDC Farm Business Update National Livestreams are topic specific, interactive, interview style discussions that address key farm business management improvements common to grain growing businesses across Australia.

A recording of the livestream will be available on the GRDC website here