When change is needed on-farm, how do we better understand what kind of change we're dealing with—and what it takes to support it effectively? In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Blake Holgate talks to Geoff Kaine, Landcare Research Senior Researcher in economics, about farmer behaviour, decision-making, and the types of change they encounter. They explore why some shifts are easier, how support varies, and why understanding each farmer’s situation is key to effective industry and policy action.

Geoff introduces a framework categorizing farm system changes as simple, complex, tactical, or strategic. Simple changes are low-risk and one-off, while complex ones require planning. Tactical shifts adjust production methods, whereas strategic changes redefine what is produced, such as switching from dairy to horticulture. Decision-making depends on mindset, system boundaries, and support networks, particularly for complex or strategic transitions.

Tune in to this engaging conversation to learn how both Blake and Geoff emphasize the importance of understanding the type of change a farmer is navigating before offering advice or support. They also highlight that for farmers facing big transitions, industry and government must invest in research and create viable options to support system-level change.