Child safety on farms

Children who live on farms are more likely to be injured or killed on the farm than their parents or other farm workers. Since 2001, children under 15 years have accounted for approximately 15% of all farm-related deaths on Australian farms (235 deaths). Injuries can also have long-term physical, psychological and financial impacts on children and their families.   

The main hazards responsible for these deaths include dams and water bodies (especially for children under five), quad bikes, side-by-sides, tractors, farm utes, motorbikes and horses.  

How to keep children safe on farms

• Safe play area: A fenced area close to the house helps keep young children away from farm dangers.  

• Always supervise children: Active supervision is key – this means staying close, watching and engaging with children at all times to ensure their safety.

• Match tasks to a child’s age and ability: Older children can be taught about farm safety but should only do age-appropriate (physically and mentally developmentally appropriate) tasks, be supervised at all times and ensure appropriate rules and protective equipment is worn.  

• Lead by example: Children learn by watching adults. If you practice and value farm safety, so will your child. 

• Talk about farm safety as a family: Regular conversations about safety rules and risks help children develop lifelong safe behaviours.  

Fast facts:

• Children who live on farms have a higher risk of injury or death than other children.
• Teach your children about safety from a young age.
• Talk to your child frequently about the safety rules of the farm.
• Provide fenced play areas for young children.
• Supervise older children when they work on the farm.