The documents RIC asks for

Most RIC applications that stall are missing something. Gather the documents before you start the online form, and the rest goes much more smoothly. This list follows RIC's April 2026 loan document checklist. Check the latest version before you apply.

Needed for the first assessment

1. Financial statements for at least the last three years, for every entity linked to the application. They must be prepared by your accountant and include profit and loss statements, balance sheets and depreciation schedules. The latest finalised set must be no more than 18 months old when RIC assesses the loan.
2. A statement of position: every asset and liability for each person and entity in the business. In plain words, what you own and what you owe.
3. A "year in, year out" cashflow budget: a detailed cashflow for a normal year at full production, for a year you nominate. It shows RIC what the business looks like when things are working, not in the middle of a drought.

Often asked for during assessment

RIC's lending specialist may also ask for ATO account statements, your last three tax returns in full, 12 months of personal and business bank statements, 12 months of loan statements, your bank's latest letter of offer, any trust deed, rates notices and water licences, and certified ID.

For particular loans

• Drought Loan: a drought management plan. RIC says it sets out how you'll prepare for, manage through and recover from drought, and the activities the loan will fund. If you're refinancing, explain how the interest savings help you prepare for the next drought. Examples RIC gives include water infrastructure, stock reduction or agistment, and early weaning. You can use your own plan, the template in the form, or RIC's separate template.
• AgriStarter succession: a succession plan prepared by a professional.
• Business plan: RIC's checklist also lists a detailed business plan that lines up with your year in, year out figures.

Our templates

We have a year in, year out cashflow spreadsheet, a RIC application pack and a drought management plan template. They're free. Make sure your figures match your accountant's statements, because a mismatch invites questions.