What Came First, the Chicken or the Tech?

23.09.2025

NAB supports big ideas as they hatch

In the heart of Ballarat, NAB customer Rob Mitchell is proving that innovation and adaptability can thrive in the most unexpected pairings—accounting and poultry farming.

In Mr Mitchell’s case, the tech came first. Starting out in IT, he found himself increasingly drawn to the financial side of client support. Following that curiosity back to university for a master’s degree in accounting, he now runs his own successful accounting firm, but that’s only half the story.

Having grown up on a farm, Rob was always drawn to country life.  

 “You can take the boy out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the boy,” said Mr Mitchell.  

What started as a few backyard chooks for personal egg supply quickly grew into a thriving free-range poultry business. Demand surged—especially during COVID—as more people sought organic, paddock-to-plate food options.

Managing two vastly different businesses might seem daunting, but Mr Mitchell sees a common thread: process and scale. 

“It’s no different to banking,” he said.  

“You can look after one or two customers easily, but doing it for millions takes systems, consistency, and resilience.”

Innovation is central to Rob’s approach. In accounting, he sees AI transforming back-office operations, freeing up time for advisory work. In poultry farming, technology enables him and his partner to maintain direct relationships with over 8,500 customers across Victoria—delivering clean, affordable protein with minimal staff.

Mr Mitchell is optimistic about the future, but isn’t counting his chickens before they hatch. 

“We want to be trusted voices for our clients,” he says. “And in agriculture, we’re helping people reconnect with their food supply. That leads to healthier communities and more opportunities for others to get involved.” 

NAB Small Business Banker, Anton Fernando, is proud of the partnership he’s built with Mr Mitchell on shared values of innovation and community. 

“Rob’s story is a great example of how NAB backs business owners who are thinking differently. Whether it’s scaling a tech-driven accounting firm or growing a sustainable food business, we’re proud to support Rob’s vision and help him bring it to life”.