RURAL Aid has reminded farmers that support is available to primary producers facing increasing pressure from biosecurity threats and pests that are compounding already challenging conditions.

A range of assistance programs is available to help farming families through hardship and recovery, including financial support, hay and water deliveries and mental health counselling. All services are provided at no cost to primary producers and their families.

Across the poultry industry, there is increasing concern around H5N1 avian influenza, which has been detected in migratory shorebirds and poses a serious threat to the poultry industry in Western Australia. The H5N1 strain also presents a major concern for dairy, and meat production right across Australia with heightened biosecurity vigilance in place for several livestock industries.

Beekeepers are facing ongoing challenges associated with the spread of varroa mite, creating increased concern across a broader range of pollination-dependent industries as management requirements continue to evolve. 

At the same time, farmers across WA, South Australia and Victoria are contending with damaging mouse activity and locust plagues that can rapidly impact crops, pasture and stored feed.

Rural Aid chief executive officer, John Warlters, said farmers are once again being asked to manage multiple, overlapping risks.

"We are seeing farmers across the country facing a combination of biosecurity threats, pest pressures and seasonal challenges at the same time. These situations can escalate quickly and place real pressure on farming families and rural communities.

"It is important farmers know they are not alone. Rural Aid is here to help, and support is available when it is needed most."

Warlters said emerging concerns are seeing real stress being placed on primary producers right across the country.

"Accessing support is simple. Farmers can call or go online in just a few minutes, and we'll guide them through the process from there."

Farmers say the ease of accessing support is critical when pressures are high. A recent recipient of hay at Ashford, New South Wales, cattle farmer Kathy Gleeson, spoke of reaching out to Rural Aid.

"It was really easy to register with Rural Aid. One phone call and they took care of everything. The hay arrived quickly and it made a huge difference at a really stressful time," Gleeson said.

Farmers report that knowing support is accessible quickly and without complexity makes a significant difference during periods of heightened stress.

Assistance is available by calling 1300 327 624 or visiting ruralaid.org.au