This month, we’re taking a moment to reflect on something special—our 2024 Farmer Health Symposium and Parliament House event in Canberra in August. As our first time bringing Farmer Health to the nation’s capital, it was an experience that will stick with us for a while.
A highlight of Farmer Health @ Parliament House (Day 1) was being able to present to several key politicians—including the Hon Julie Collins – Minister for Agriculture; the Hon Emma McBride – Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention; the Hon Senator Hollie Hughes – Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention—and a number of MPs from around the country with farmers a key group within their constituencies. With support from NFF President David Jochinke, we were able to highlight the value of supporting farmer health, wellbeing and safety, and showcase a range of our farmer-focused programs. We even had some brave souls take up the offer to experience our Health & Lifestyle Assessments firsthand!
At the Farmer Health Symposium (Day 2), the key takeaway was clear: collaboration among stakeholders is vital to driving positive change in the health, wellbeing, and safety of Australian farmers, their families, and agricultural communities. Our speakers and panel members were fantastic, sparking lively discussions and laying the groundwork for new collaborations. With powerful insights from keynote speaker Professor Faye McMillan and international guest Dr. David Meredith, and with panels tackling issues like farmer involvement in health initiatives, support for diverse agricultural workers, and the specific safety needs of farming women, it was a day full of inspiration.
With over 60 attendees, the enthusiasm in the room confirmed the need to keep these vital conversations going. This event has set the stage for our future farmer health, wellbeing and safety programs and projects.
We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors— Deakin University’s Rural Health Network, Western District Health Service, Dairy Australia, the Gentlemen of Geelong, and Udder Delights—for their support in bringing our event to life. A huge thank you also goes to our panel members and guest speakers, who generously gave their time and shared their expertise in support of our cause in shaping tomorrow’s healthiest farming communities.
Lastly, a shoutout to our dedicated National Centre for Farmer Health team, whose hard work behind the scenes and on research, education and service delivery is crucial to our Centre’s success in continuing the path to create healthier, happier and safer farmers.
Outcomes from this event will help us design our roadmap for collaboration on farmer health, wellbeing, and safety in Australia. There’s plenty of work ahead, but for now, we’ll take a moment to celebrate what we’ve achieved and get cracking on what’s to come!
– Dr Alison Kennedy, Director.
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