The RFCS Program was established in 1986 in response to drought, depressed commodity prices and increasing interest rates, and has continued because of ongoing need. The program is funded by the Australian and state governments, who have committed funding to 30 June 2015. The WA government has also committed additional funding from January 2011 until July 2012 as part of the Dry Season's Response Package.
North East Farming Futures Group applied for the government grant in 2008 after experiencing crippling drought over a number of years in the North East Agricultural Region. Even though it was drought that initiated NEFF's application, the service has strong expertise in all areas of business..
NEFF were successful in their bid to become the New Service providers as of July 2008.
To ensure the service is relevant to all areas of WA a RFCS WA board was established made up of members from all over the state.