Crisis Communications Training
The Crisis Communications Training program supports farmers and agriculture sector representatives be equipped to manage communications in a crisis.
Communication during a crisis is critical with key stakeholders, including staff, clients, and suppliers, as well as public officials, industry, and the media. QFF has identified a need to build capacity and skills for farmers and key agriculture representatives to manage this communication and deal with media enquiries.
Project background
Farming businesses are increasingly facing risks that can disrupt operations. These may include a biosecurity outbreak, eco-terrorism attacks, a farm accident or fatality, or any unplanned event that interrupts day-to-day activity.
Primary producers are also under greater scrutiny from both social and mainstream media. Many may not have the skills or confidence to manage media enquiries or present themselves and their business in the best light. When communications are mishandled, reputational damage can become an unforeseen and significant risk.
How is training delivered?
The program is developing resources, including a five-module toolkit that equips farmers with practical skills and techniques to manage farm or industry communications and, when necessary, respond to media interviews and requests for information. These resources include:
communication plan templates that can be applied to crisis preparation
scenarios and exercises delivered at workshops as part of the training
a guide to managing media enquiries for farm owners and managers.
To date, more than 50 participants have attended facilitated workshops. Additional face-to-face training may be offered as the program continues.
