Don’t hesitate to seek assistance if needed

14 January 2025

There is specialist wellbeing support available to farmers and their communities affected by the recent Grampians fires and the ongoing drought in the south-west region, and we urge those in need to make contact.

Acting Director Agriculture Services Aimee McCutcheon said Agriculture Victoria and the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) Victoria West are available to help.

‘In addition to financial counselling, the RFCS Victoria West service offers wellbeing support to help with mental stresses resulting from financial issues,’ Ms McCutcheon said.

RFCS helps farmers and small business owners to:

• develop strategies to cope with stress
• recognise signs of poor health in themselves and/or their workers
• set up a support network within family/friends/community
• identify groups/activities within the community that can help
• access health services through referrals.

The names and locations of wellbeing counsellors can be found on the RFCS website. Alternatively, call 1300 735 578.

Agriculture Victoria is coordinating a range of events across the region to help connect farmers.

‘We know that farmers getting together in the paddock or local hall to share experiences, learn and support each other is incredibly important during times of stress,’ Ms McCutcheon said.

Service providers, farmers and community members are encouraged to attend an upcoming Talk the Talk session in Hamilton and Inverleigh. These interactive sessions focus on recognising mental health issues and providing support.

For more information visit our events page.

The National Centre for Farmer Health has valuable resources for the agricultural industry, supporting dry season and/or fire-affected producers and families on its Support Hub.

The Managing Stress on the Farm book explores the common causes of stressors on farms and offers practical ways to deal with them. It also includes the Steering Straight plan, to help individuals manage their mental health with practical, useful steps.

In addition, along with family and friends, there are wellbeing and mental health services available in the community to help you manage stress. If in need of support during difficult times, visit your local doctor (GP).

Media contact: Mel Curtis

Phone: 0402 001 853