Level Up Your Government Career with the Regional Investment Corporation 🚀
Ever wondered what it takes to excel in a government role that directly empowers Australia’s agricultural future? If so, you’re in for a treat! Below is a short, sharp overview of the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC)—from its mission and financials to the skills and backgrounds that can help you shine. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned finance professional, or simply curious about working in the public sector, this guide will give you the inside scoop on why the RIC might just be the perfect fit. Buckle up and get ready to discover how you can make a real impact in regional Australia!
AT-A-GLANCE
Name of Department / Council: Regional Investment Corporation (RIC)
Location: Headquartered in Orange, NSW (operates Australia-wide)
CEO: John Howard
Total Revenue: Approximately $23.4 million (2023–24)
Total Number of Employees: 94
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 academic qualifications most suited:
Accounting / Finance Degrees – Contributes to loan product development and financial analysis.
Agricultural Science / Agribusiness – Helps assess the unique needs of farming communities.
Business Administration / Commerce – Enables strong project oversight and managerial expertise.
Economics / Statistics – Essential for impact evaluation and performance reporting.
Information Technology / Data Analytics – Facilitates robust digital loan processing and cybersecurity.
Top 5 certifications most suited:
CPA / CA – Ensures rigorous financial oversight and compliance with government mandates.
Project Management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMBOK) – Enhances the rollout of new programs and initiatives.
Business Analysis (e.g., CBAP) – Improves process efficiencies and client-facing systems.
Risk Management (e.g., ISO 31000) – Helps maintain balanced lending risk for farm businesses.
Government Procurement / Contracting – Critical for managing public funds and supplier relationships.
Top 5 trades / professions most suited:
Financial Services Professionals – Oversee credit assessments and lending criteria.
IT Specialists / Software Developers – Build user-friendly platforms for loan applications.
Agricultural Advisers / Farm Consultants – Bridge the gap between on-ground realities and policy decisions.
Administration & Customer Service Roles – Provide seamless support for applicants and current borrowers.
Data and Cybersecurity Analysts – Protect sensitive information and streamline analysis for better decision-making.
Top 5 skills most suited:
Stakeholder Engagement – Collaborate effectively with farmers, industry groups, and fellow agencies.
Financial Analysis – Evaluate loan feasibility and economic returns.
Project Coordination – Manage large-scale transformations, such as new IT systems or loan initiatives.
Policy Interpretation – Stay compliant with legislation while driving impactful results.
Strategic Thinking – Innovate solutions that support farm businesses in evolving conditions.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Regional Investment Corporation (RIC)
Name of CEO: John Howard
Location: Operates across Australia, with its main office in Orange, NSW
Year Founded: 2018
Main mission and purpose of the department:
The RIC champions the resilience and profitability of Australian agriculture through concessional loans. For instance, a drought-affected farmer might secure a RIC loan at a low interest rate, allowing them to invest in water-saving tech and keep their operation thriving—benefiting not just their farm but the surrounding regional economy.Main duties of the department:
Administering Farm Investment Loans, AgriStarter Loans, and other concessional products designed to help rural businesses navigate challenges, modernize infrastructure, and drive long-term growth. Imagine a livestock grazier leveraging a RIC loan to improve irrigation systems or restock more sustainably.Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
Insourcing and refining digital platforms to accelerate loan approval times
Fostering sustainable agriculture through targeted loan offerings
Strengthening risk management frameworks
Engaging more deeply with remote and regional communities
Did you know?
The RIC has settled over 3,100 loans valued at more than $3.37 billion since its inception in 2018—an impressive contribution to farm businesses nationwide.
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: 94
Total Number of Employees at each pay level: Spans administrative through senior executive roles—reflecting a dynamic mix of skill sets.
Salary Bands: From entry-level to senior management, aligned with government benchmarks.
Average salary in the department: Varies by classification, yet competitive within the Australian Public Service framework.
Total Revenue: Approximately $23.4 million for 2023–24
Average Revenue per Employee: $23.4 million ÷ 94 ≈ $249,000
GETTING A JOB AT THE REGIONAL INVESTMENT CORPORATION
Which academic subjects are likely to be most sought after?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Certificate III/IV in Business Administration – Handy for admin and support tasks.
Diploma in Financial Services – A springboard to roles involving loan application support.
Certificate in Information Technology – Entry-level IT roles, helping maintain essential systems.
Bachelor / Master Level:
Bachelor of Commerce / Master of Finance – For in-depth financial analytics and credit policies.
Bachelor of Agriculture / Master of Agribusiness – Connects agri-knowledge with policy frameworks.
Bachelor of Data Analytics / Master of Data Science – Vital for data-driven decision-making and systems oversight.
PhDs:
PhD in Agricultural Economics or Rural Finance – Bring research-backed strategies to enhance loan products.
PhD in Information Systems – Innovate digital solutions for faster and more secure loan processes.
Which trades and professions are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
IT technicians, finance officers, risk analysts, farm advisers, and admin professionals—especially those with government or agribusiness backgrounds.
Which work experiences are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Financial Services Experience – Ensures robust loan structuring and compliance.
Agricultural Extension or Consulting – Bridges the gap between farmers’ day-to-day challenges and policy-level solutions.
Public Sector or Policy Work – Demonstrates familiarity with government procedures and accountability.
Project Management – Helps RIC implement large-scale changes, from new product launches to digital shifts.
Customer-Facing Roles – Maintains high service standards for loan applicants and recipients.
Which skills are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Soft skills:
Communication – Simplifies complex processes for farmers and stakeholders.
Adaptability – Navigates seasonal variances and policy changes with ease.
Problem-solving – Crafts practical solutions to funding bottlenecks.
Technical skills:
Credit Risk Assessment – Evaluates financial viability for new loans.
Data Analysis & Reporting – Gauges loan impact on regional economies.
Systems Integration – Develops user-friendly digital pathways for loan management.
General skills:
Collaboration – Partners effectively with internal and external teams.
Time Management – Keeps pace with application deadlines and portfolio reviews.
Basic Policy Knowledge – Ensures alignment with legislative mandates and guidelines.
Which hobbies and interests align with the work of this department?
Gardening / Permaculture – Reflects hands-on understanding of sustainable land practices.
Community Involvement – Demonstrates a passion for supporting regional areas.
Tech Enthusiasm – Useful for anyone wanting to help refine digital loan platforms.
Want more information on this department?
Contact the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC):
Address: Suite 2, 122–124 Kite Street, Orange NSW 2800
Telephone: 1800 875 675
Email: info@ric.gov.au
Website: www.ric.gov.au
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