This paper reports on a study of 4,000 australian farmers. It examines factors that are associated with decisions they may or may not make to adapt to risks posed by climate change. It reveals that a majority of farmers are simply focusing on surviving in the short term in the face of a myriad of challenges which go well beyond climate; however, it is evident that a large number of these farmers have identified the fact that they are not financially viable in the face of current climate challenges. Such a conclusion raises many challenges for both farmers and policy makers. In facilitating groups of farmers moving on from existing practices, policy responses need to consider solutions which address the many complexities which will arise. As farmers come off exceptional circumstances assistance, drought, climate, natural resource management and community service policy makers will need to work closely together to address the myriad of issues that will arise from this substantial process of social change. Many famers will have little if any equity left with which to rebuild their farms. The property values of some farms will have been drastically reduced because of shifts in water assets or the sale of the same. Some farmers and their families will need support, both social and financial, as they transition to new lifestyles and identities for themselves while others will need help in re-building as they move to sustainable practices. --Excerpted text.