Thinking of starting an agritourism business? Here’s what you need to know first
The idea of turning your farm into a visitor experience is exciting — but where do you start? Whether you’re dreaming of long-table paddock lunches, farm stays, or seasonal events, agritourism can be a great way to diversify income, build community, and share your story.
Before you hang out the welcome sign, here’s what you need to know.
1. Agritourism is more than just farm tours
Agritourism includes any visitor experience linked to agriculture, such as:
Farm stays
Pick-your-own produce
Long-table dinners
Educational workshops
Events and festivals
Cellar doors and on-farm tasting rooms
Start by thinking: What do I love about life on the land — and how can I share it in a way people will value and pay for?
2. Start with what makes you unique
Australia has thousands of farms. What makes yours different?
Is it your location, history, or produce?
Do you have a great view, a rare breed, or a quirky farm dog?
Are you passionate about sustainability or traditional techniques?
Use this to shape your rural experience design and your brand story.
3. Understand your legal & safety obligations
Yes, it’s the boring part — but it's essential. Check:
Local zoning and planning regulations (can you run visitor experiences from your property?)
Food safety standards (if you’re serving food or drink)
Insurance coverage for public liability and business operations
Accessibility and parking considerations
Tip: Speak to your local Council early — many are now actively supporting agritourism development.
4. Think experience first, not just products
Selling jams or honey is great, but today’s travellers want to connect, learn, and experience.
Design experiences that engage the senses, allow hands-on involvement, and tell your story. For example:
A beekeeper-led honey tasting
Milking a cow followed by making your own butter
A seasonal picnic with produce from your paddocks
5. Start small, test often
You don’t need to build cabins or hire staff right away.
Start with one low-cost offer — like a monthly farm tour or workshop — and gather feedback. Refine as you go. Small steps build confidence and proof of demand.
6. Marketing matters (and it’s easier than you think)
You don’t need a huge budget, but you do need a presence.
A simple website (even a one-pager) with photos and a booking button
Google Business Profile so you appear on local searches
An Instagram or Facebook page to share behind-the-scenes farm life
Tip: Partner with your regional tourism organisation (RTO) — many offer free listings or promotions.
7. Grants and mentoring are available
You’re not alone. There are increasing funding opportunities for agritourism development, including:
Business start-up grants
Infrastructure and accessibility upgrades
Experience development mentoring (like ours at Tilma!)
Check your local council, RDA or tourism body for current opportunities.
Thinking about launching an agritourism business but not sure where to begin?
Explore our Agritourism Development Support Services – from mentoring to strategy and grants, we help farm-based businesses turn their ideas into visitor-ready experiences.
