A coalition appealing for urgent mental health action in the agricultural sector has reached 50 members.
The major coalition has called on the Federal Government to make an immediate investment of $50 million over five years to support mental health in agriculture.
The Coalition for Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture issued its inaugural joint statement last month.
Now, 50 rural and healthcare organisations and individuals have added their names to the movement.
Dr Tim Driscoll, Chair of the steering committee leading the initiative, and Royal Flying Doctor Service Queensland Section’s State Manager – Mental Health, said there is a huge need for mental health support across Australia right now.
“Between drought in South Australia and Victoria and floods in Queensland, farmers are really copping it at the moment,” Dr Driscoll said.
“We welcome recent commitments from all sides of politics to growing the mental health workforce.
“We’ve had commitments to expand Medicare Mental Health centres, reinstate 20 Medicare-subsidised mental health sessions, and develop a Rural, Regional, and Remote Health Strategy.
“These announcements reflect a shared recognition that Australia’s mental health system is under significant pressure and requires urgent attention.
“However, farmers need specific, targeted services.”
“What use are subsidised mental health sessions if there’s no mental health practitioner with their books open anywhere near you?
“Farmers are also very hesitant to access telehealth services delivered by city-based professionals who unfortunately may know little about life in rural Australia.
“We’re asking for $50m. It’s not just throwing money at the problem; it’s about tailored services that speak to farmers and fit-for-purpose solutions,” Dr Driscoll said.
The coalition’s Joint Statement outlines five key principles which emerged from the National Forum on Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture in March 2024, and were refined by a Steering Committee convened by The National Farmers’ Federation.
To join the coalition and support mental health and wellbeing in agriculture, contact the National Farmers’ Federation: 02 6269 5666 or zrayson@nff.org.au
ENDS
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Farmer Health Support Hub at https://farmerhealth.org.au/support-hub
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
- Sober in the Country at www.soberinthecountry.org
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
- MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
- Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) on 1800 008 774
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Background
These principles emerged from the National Forum on Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture in March 2024, attended by over 60 participants representing a broad range of stakeholders and interests.
From the National Forum, hosted by the National Farmers’ Federation, emerged a Steering Committee to bring together experts in research, practice, and advocacy.
The joint statement was released to the public in March 2025.
The statement can be viewed here: https://nff.org.au/joint-mental-health-statement-28042025/
Committee members available for comment
Dr Tim Driscoll
Chair of the steering committee
State Manager, Mental Health, RFDS Queensland Section
T 07 4652 5800
M 0438 324 226
Ashleigh Whittaker
Stacey Davidson