Community groups across Victoria can now apply for up to $5,000 in funding to organise events that support farmer mental health, wellbeing and social connection in regional areas.
The funding is part of the Look Over the Farm Gate Community Grants Program which is being delivered by the National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH) on behalf of the Victorian Government’s 2025 Drought Support package. The NCFH will administer the grants, and provide support to applicants to put on their community event.
While grants are available to community groups across Victoria, NCFH Director Alison Kennedy said Look Over the Farm Gate will prioritise drought-impacted areas.
“We’re looking forward to kicking off Look Over the Farm Gate, to help Victorian communities organise effective events that promote social connection and mental health awareness for farmers, their families and workers who are doing it tough at the moment,” Alison said.
“We have learnt from experience that when it comes to supporting mental health and wellbeing, community leaders understand the dynamics and unique needs of their region better than anyone. They are often keen to start important conversations around farmer mental health, help their community members be proactive in protecting their wellbeing and build resilience, and direct people to seek help if required.”
Eligible community organisations and groups in Victoria can include agriculture industry groups, service clubs, sporting clubs, neighbourhood houses, local health services and other not-for-profit groups.
Community events can be targeted to farmers, agricultural workers and farming families, as well as the broader agricultural communities and trusted agricultural advisers who support them. Events can be diverse, ranging from a community BBQ or a farmer health check to a guest speaker session.
“It’s easy to apply for a Look Over the Farm Gate Community Grant – all you have to do is fill out an online form on the NCFH website. You can also seek our team’s support in thinking about your event,” Alison explained.
“In addition to funding, successful applicants for Look Over the Farm Gate Community Grants will also receive an event resource pack with mental health resources tailored to farming communities, to help organisers deliver their event in a psychologically and emotionally safe way.”
For more information on the Look Over the Farm Gate Community Grants Program or to apply for funding, visit farmerhealth.org.au/look-over-the-farm-gate. Look Over the Farm Gate is funded by Agriculture Victoria under the Victorian Government’s 2025 Drought Support Package.
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For more information, please contact:
Alison Kennedy – Director, National Centre for Farmer Health
P: 03 5551 8533 | M: 0407 549 970 | E: alison.kennedy@wdhs.net
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