A NATIONAL survey to help research into farmer wellbeing is now open.
The on-line survey is being conducted by the farmer-owned dairy co-operative Norco and the National Farmers' Federation (NFF). Results will form the basis of the National Farmer Wellbeing Report, to be published in March next year. The survey is open to all people working in Australian farming and agriculture, across all regions, commodities and business sizes.
First commissioned in 2023, the National Farmer Wellbeing Report was designed to shine a light on the lived experiences, challenges and resilience of Australian farmers. The current survey will revisit the original findings to see what's changed, what hasn't, and what farmers need now to thrive.
Launched to coincide with Mental Health Month, the survey comes at a fitting time to spotlight the wellbeing of the people who power Australian agriculture. It's a timely reminder that behind every farm are people whose wellbeing is vital to the strength of our communities and our nation's food supply.
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The initial report helped drive the formation of the Coalition for Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture, now with over 60 members uniting to advocate for tailored, evidence-based support for farmer mental health and wellbeing. Norco and the NFF are members of the coalition.
Michael Hampson, Norco chief executive, said: "Our farmers are the backbone of this country, and their wellbeing underpins the future of Australian agriculture.
"Through droughts, floods, fires and market volatility, they've shown extraordinary resilience. But we know these pressures take a toll.
"This research is about ensuring farmer voices are heard, so we can build a clear picture of how they're really faring today, and what's needed to safeguard their health, livelihoods and industry for generations to come."
Hamish McIntyre, NFF president, said the wellbeing of farmers is fundamental to the strength of the entire agricultural sector.
"This is a truly national effort, and it will only succeed if people in agriculture know about it and take part," McIntyre said.
"We're proud to partner with Norco – a farmer owned co-operative - on this important work, and we encourage farmers across the country to have their say.
"Every response matters: the more voices, the stronger the message we can take forward to help drive meaningful change for the sector."
The survey will capture people in agriculture's perspectives on physical and mental health, sources of stress, industry confidence, resilience, the impacts of natural disasters, and attitudes towards the future of farming.
Findings will highlight where action is most urgently needed and inform future efforts to better support Australian farmers - helping to build a stronger and more sustainable agricultural sector for years, and generations to come.
Farmers can complete the survey here: www.norco.com.au/farmer-wellbeing
