The NSW Nationals has called on the Minns Labor Government to commit to funding critical mental health support programs for farmers across regional and rural NSW.
The former Coalition Government implemented farm gate counselling services to boost mental health support for farming communities as they navigate the intense pressures of severe weather events, financial stresses, and isolation.
Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp, said farm gate counselling services are crucial to ensuring farming families can access the tailored support they need.
“Our region is facing paddocks under water following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, and our farmers deserve the same access to support as those in Sydney,” Kemp said.
“We recognise the unique and crushing pressures our farmers face: the financial strain, the isolation, the depression of not getting work done when it’s raining for weeks on end and falling behind.”
“The National Farmer Wellbeing Report from 2023 found that close to half of Australian farmers have reported thoughts of self-harm or suicide, and close to a third have attempted self-harm or suicide.
“It is imperative that the Minns Labor Government commits to protecting this vital service.”
NSW Nationals Leader and Shadow Minister for Regional NSW Dugald Saunders said farmers are at a significantly heightened risk of mental health challenges and emotional distress.
“Suicide rates among farmers in Australia is up to 94 per cent higher than non-farmers, on average that is one life lost every ten days that could have been prevented with the right support,” Mr Saunders said.
“The former Coalition Government funded 27 full time equivalent counsellors and support workers across eight regions, but this funding is set to expire at the end of this financial year.”
“We are calling for the Minns Labor Government to put politics aside and guarantee continued support for these services in the upcoming Budget.”
If you or anyone you know needs help:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Headspace on 1800 650 890
ReachOut at au.reachout.com
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) on 1800 008 774
Head to Health at headtohealth.gov.au