A growing coalition advocating for urgent mental health support in Australia's agricultural sector has now reached 50 members. The Coalition for Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture is calling on the Federal Government to invest $50 million over five years to address mental health needs specific to rural communities.
The coalition, which issued its inaugural joint statement last month, now includes 50 organisations and individuals from the rural and healthcare sectors.
Dr. Tim Driscoll, Chair of the coalition's steering committee and State Manager for Mental Health at the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section), emphasized the widespread need for mental health services in agriculture across Australia.
"Between drought in South Australia and Victoria and floods in Queensland, farmers are really copping it at the moment," said Dr. Driscoll.
He acknowledged recent commitments from all sides of politics to grow the mental health workforce, including the expansion of Medicare Mental Health Centres, reinstating 20 Medicare-subsidised sessions, and the development of 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," Dr. Driscoll said. "However, farmers need specific, targeted services."
He stressed that broader measures alone are not enough.
"What use are subsidised mental health sessions if there's no mental health practitioner with their books open anywhere near you?" he asked. "Farmers are also very hesitant to access telehealth services delivered by city-based professionals who, unfortunately, may know little about life in rural Australia."
The coalition is seeking $50 million not as a general funding boost, but as an investment in tailored services designed for rural and farming communities.
"It's not just throwing money at the problem," Dr. Driscoll explained. "It's about fit-for-purpose solutions that resonate with farmers."
The coalition's joint statement outlines five key principles developed during the National Forum on Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture held in March 2024. These principles were refined by a steering committee convened by the National Farmers' Federation.
For more information:
Dr Tim Driscoll
National Farmers' Federation
Tel: +61 07 4652 5800
Email: [email protected]
www.nff.org.au