Funding critical to secure future of National Centre for Farmer Health

Ongoing funding uncertainties could prevent the National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH) from delivering essential farmer-focused programs and resources that support their mental health, wellbeing and safety. 

Founded in 2008 as a partnership between Western District Health Service and Deakin University, the NCFH works with primary producers and agriculture industry members, researchers, health services and all levels of government to develop and deliver programs that support the health, safety and wellbeing of farmers at no cost to them.  

NCFH Director and mental health researcher Alison Kennedy said a diverse range of funding streams form a vital lifeline for the NCFH to identify and prevent chronic disease and safety risk factors in the agriculture and farming community in a timely and effective way. 

“Ongoing support from government and our corporate, philanthropic and industry partners is invaluable and means we can continue developing and delivering practical information, tools, training and services to farmers for free,” Alison said.  

“Any changes to our core funding will have an immediate impact on our ability to deliver initiatives directly to farming communities and may mean we need to cut back on these services or stop them completely. We need ongoing support to keep farmers farming, as they are the backbone of agriculture’s $82 billion contribution to the Australian economy. 

“While our head office is based in Hamilton, south-west Victoria, the NCFH operates nationally and has put Victoria and Australia on the map as a centre for excellence in agricultural health, wellbeing and safety research, education, service delivery and training.” 

NCFH’s team includes professionals from health, agriculture, education/extension, behavioural and social sciences that work with farmers to develop and deliver a range of informed and impactful programs and resources including: 

• Health & Lifestyle Assessments where farmers can get a free health check-up with an agrihealth-trained medical professional 

• Farmer-focused mental health resources, such as the Managing Stress on the Farm booklet 

• Unique education and training opportunities, such as the Shifting Gears farm safety education resources 

• Essential research to support rural farmer health, wellbeing and safety and inform ongoing work at the NCFH. 

Alison said there are several ways for organisations and individuals to support the NCFH through financial contributions and in-kind support. This includes collaborative projects, event and program partnerships, scholarship opportunities and donations.  

“We are proud to work alongside a diverse range of leading organisations committed to supporting farming communities and driving positive change in farmer health, wellbeing and safety,” Alison said. 

“We are actively seeking the support of partners, supporters and donors to continue our important work and make a lasting difference to farmers’ lives.” 

For more information or to find out how to support the National Centre for Farmer Health, visit farmerhealth.org.au/partnerships-supporters. 

* END OF RELEASE*

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

Farmer Health eNews May 2025

Find out the latest from the National Centre for Farmer Health

• Support the work of the NCFH: We need your help to keep making a difference to farmers’ lives
• Grow your skills, support your community: Scholarships now open
• The Mind Maintenance Toolkit is back!

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National Centre for Farmer Health awarded MRFF grant to scale up AgriSafe across three states

The National Centre for Farmer Health is proud to announce it has been awarded a prestigious five-year research grant from the Australian Government’s Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF). This nationally competitive grant will support the redevelopment and expansion of the AgriSafe™ program – a vital health, wellbeing and safety initiative tailored to the needs of people working in agriculture – and the clinical research needed to ensure it remains evidence-based, effective and future-ready. 

This significant investment acknowledges the experience and expertise of the National Centre for Farmer Health and will enable AgriSafe to be scaled across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, bringing targeted health support to more Australian farmers. The project will work with local partners, farmers and health professionals to focus on strengthening the program’s research base, ensuring it remains responsive to the evolving health needs of rural and regional communities. 

The project will be delivered in partnership with Western District Health Service, the Alliance of Rural and Regional Community Health (ARRCH), the NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation, Darling Downs Health Service, West Moreton Health Service, Deakin University and Central Queensland University. 

“This is an exciting opportunity to bring community, clinical practice, and research together, and an important step forward for AgriSafe,” said Associate Professor Alison Kennedy, Director at the National Centre for Farmer Health.

“This funding will allow us to expand this program – but it’s not a replacement for the ongoing funding from the Victorian Government that remains critical to sustain the day-to-day delivery of essential health services in our Victorian communities.” 

Professor Susan Brumby, Senior Researcher at the National Centre for Farmer Health and Clinical Lead on the newly funded project, emphasised the clinical and translational significance of the MRFF-funded project.

“This MRFF investment recognises the clinical and public health significance of agricultural health research,” she said. “It enables us to undertake a robust research program that will refine the AgriSafe approach, generate new evidence, and support scalable, community-responsive health interventions across rural Australia.” 

Research activities will include co-design with farmers, clinical data collection, and ongoing impact evaluation across diverse agricultural settings, while delivery partners will bring the revitalised program to new regions, ensuring it is accessible, sustainable and community-driven. 

Partner organisations have also welcomed the joint focus on delivery and evidence.

Andrea Caia, Acting Chief Executive of Primary Care Connect and representative of the Alliance of Rural and Regional Community Health, said: 
“This project is a great example of what’s possible when rural organisations work together. AgriSafe has already proven its value, and we’re proud to be part of the next stage – making sure it reaches more communities and reflects the realities of life on the land.” 

Darling Downs Representative, Richard Renshaw, said: 
“AgriSafe is a new program for our region, and we’re excited to bring it to farming communities across the Darling Downs. This partnership gives us the chance to offer a targeted, proactive approach to farmer wellbeing that reflects the specific challenges faced by our local agricultural workforce.” 

Shellie Burgess, Rural Health Network Manager at the NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation, said:  
“The Rural Health Network welcomes the opportunity to support the scalability assessment of AgriSafe in New South Wales as part of this collaborative research. Supporting the health and wellbeing of our rural communities is a priority, and AgriSafe offers a valuable, evidence-based tool to help address the unique pressures faced by people working on the land.” 

This MRFF-funded initiative represents a significant step forward in rural and agricultural health, ensuring that AgriSafe continues to make a difference where it’s needed most – on farms, in health services, and across regional Australia.

* END OF RELEASE*

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

Farmer Health eNews April 2025

Find out the latest from the National Centre for Farmer Health

• Support the work of the NCFH and make a difference to farmers’ lives
• Q Fever cases on the rise: What you need to know
• Interested in joining the NCFH Board? Applications now open!

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New handbook tackles the tough topics when planning events in farming communities

The National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH) has developed a practical handbook to help individuals and groups deliver successful community events with a mental health focus. 

Tackling the Tough Topics: A step-by-step guide to plan mental health and wellbeing events in farming communities outlines best practice guidelines and provides support to organise impactful events that foster mental health and wellbeing while avoiding potential harm to vulnerable individuals. 

The NCFH identified a need for these guidelines in 2023 after supporting 60 flood recovery events in Victorian farming communities in partnership with Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN). Tackling the Tough Topics was developed through a co-design process with rural mental health specialists, community development and disaster recovery staff in four rural shires.  

“We know there is strong motivation and good intention to improve mental health from within farming communities. We also know that working together to connect and collectively address challenges is something that farming communities often do very well,” NCFH Director Alison Kennedy said. 

“Tackling the Tough Topics aims to build awareness, knowledge and capability to ensure that when farming communities come together with the purpose of supporting and improving mental health, they are empowered to do so in a way that is well-planned, safe and effective.” 

A free webinar will be held on Thursday 6 March where Tackling the Tough Topics authors Sally Cunningham and Sarah Crosthwaite will discuss how to use the guidelines effectively, share tips and answer questions.  

“Community group leaders in rural areas are great at planning events tailored to local needs or responding to particular circumstances. They understand the dynamics and needs of their farming community but are often unsure how to tackle topics around mental health and wellbeing,” NCFH Project Officer Sally Cunningham said.  

“Talking about mental health and wellbeing when people are gathered together at a community event helps reduce stigma and encourages people to be proactive in managing and protecting their wellbeing. It also helps people to recognise when to seek assistance from within existing family, friend or farming networks, and to be informed about where to get support from mental health professionals if needed.” 

What’s inside Tackling the Tough Topics 

• A clear structure based on 14 key questions to guide event planning 
• Practical templates to ensure the event runs smoothly and achieves its objectives 
• Case studies from rural events and top tips that provide valuable insights 
• Guidance on selecting and preparing guest speakers, ensuring they are well-briefed about the farming community’s unique needs and challenges.  

To access the guidelines, visit farmerhealth.org.au/tackling-the-tough-topics-a-step-by-step-guide-to-plan-mental-health-and-wellbeing-events-in-farming-communities.

The NCFH is also keen to hear from those who have used the guidelines for an event and invite users to share their feedback via the same webpage. 

To register for the Tackling the Tough Topics webinar on Thursday 6 March, visit farmerhealth.org.au/event/tackling-the-tough-topics-webinar. 

This project was supported by Western Victoria Primary Health Network Wellbeing and Resilience Funding under the Australian Government’s Primary Health Networks Program.

* END OF RELEASE*

For more information, please contact:

Sally Cunningham – Project/Extension Officer, National Centre for Farmer Health 
P: 03 5551 8533 | M: 0437 810 244 | E: sally.cunningham@wdhs.net

Farmer Health eNews March 2025

Find out the latest from the National Centre for Farmer Health

• Free webinar: Exploring the Tackling the Tough Topics guidelines
• Looking for mental health support? Here’s what to consider
• We want to hear from you!
• Upcoming events you won’t want to miss

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Global comparison of the economic cost of coronary heart disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, yet no comprehensive evaluation of its global economic costs exists. A systematic review was conducted with meta-analysis to examine the costs of CHD treatment by region and CHD subtypes, examining whether there are cost differences by sex, and examining costing methodologies. 

This review illustrated the expense associated with CHD, which is varied by region and CHD subtypes. The observed cost difference by sex warrants further exploration of sex-specific factors influencing cost disparities. Exploring advanced costing methods such as time-driven activity-based costing can optimise resource allocation and identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary costs and cost disparities. 

We want to hear from you!

Researchers from Deakin, Curtin and Latrobe Universities and the National Centre for Farmer Health are keen to hear community views on gendered experiences in Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) healthcare pathways.  

We would like to better understand people’s lived experiences of CHD and their related healthcare, whether you live in a rural or metro area.  If you are at least 30 years of age or over and have been discharged from hospital for a CHD-related event (for example a heart attack) within the last few months, we invite you to share your story in an online focus group discussion and help improve care.  

If you would like to know more, contact project team member Dr James Lucas (he/him): james.lucas@deakin.edu.au  

This project is funded by a NHMRC Ideas Grant (2011209).  It has received ethical approval from Deakin University’s Human Research Ethics Committee (Project ID: 2022-309).

Shifting Gears farm safety education program refreshed and ready to go back to school

The National Centre for Farmer Health has updated its Shifting Gears resources, providing teachers with a comprehensive suite of practical resources to emphasise the importance of farm health and safety in schools.  

Shifting Gears is a teacher-led program aimed at fostering a culture of farm safety among young people especially those living on farms, studying agriculture and horticulture, or considering careers in these fields. 

The program supports teachers to talk about farm safety by building their confidence in lesson planning, delivery and classroom discussions. This update has been made possible through $100,000 in funding from the Victorian Government’s Farming Safe and Well Program. 

“By making farm safety information freely available to all Victorian teachers and schools we are investing in the safety of our children and young people now and into the future,” said Victorian Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence.  

Farms present serious death and injury risks to young people as well as adults. Children under the age of 15 represent approximately 14% of all farm-related fatalities in Australia, and this rate has remained consistent for the past 20 years. Common farm hazards include dams, machinery and vehicles, as well as working with animals and agrichemicals. 

The funding has allowed the Centre to support teachers in their delivery of Shifting Gears by way of a pre-recorded webinar and supplementary activity to complement existing materials.  

Shifting Gears provides a practical way for teachers and schools to empower their students and make a lasting impact on farm safety education. The updated resources provide tailored, relatable and age-appropriate discussions and activities that relate to unique audio-visual materials and content designed to resonate with the Australian farming context. 

The Centre’s Senior Lecturer/Researcher Dr Jacquie Cotton said Shifting Gears stands out by bridging the gap between agricultural studies and national skills programs, tailoring content to suit young people.  

“Farms are a unique blend of homes and workplaces, and Shifting Gears takes a strong first step in changing young people’s attitudes towards farm safety by starting discussions in the classroom. We use role models to demonstrate what farm safety looks like and why it’s important, catering to a diverse range of learning types,” Dr Cotton said.  

“Shifting Gears broadens young people’s understanding of agricultural injury within rural Australia. It helps to increase their awareness of farm hazards, and embrace a culture where health, wellbeing and safety is a priority for the next generation of farmers and ag industry members.” 

Victorian teachers will have free access to the resources up to June 2026.  

What’s new for Shifting Gears in 2025 

• Downloadable PDF for flexible use, covering agricultural health statistics, agricultural exposure to hazards and agents of injury, the flow-on effect of poor farmer health, the hierarchy of controls, prevention strategies and more 
• Documentary-style videos linking farm safety to human health with creative animations illustrating safety theories 
• 13 classroom activities and discussions that are broadly aligned with the agricultural curriculum to engage and educate students.  

The Shifting Gears resources are available to teachers for free. For more information on the program and to access the resources, visit farmerhealth.org.au/shifting-gears-2. 

This program has been funded by through the Victorian Government’s Farming Safe and Well Program. 

* END OF RELEASE*

For more information, please contact:

Dr Jacquie Cotton – Senior Lecturer/Researcher, National Centre for Farmer Health 
P: 03 5551 8533 | M: 0409 287 497 | E: jacquie.cotton@wdhs.net  

Considerations when looking for professional mental health support

Are you thinking about seeking professional mental health support for yourself or someone close to you? Here are some key things to think about to help you choose someone that’s right for you.  

Do they have experience working with rural or farming communities and do they understand the agricultural industry?

It’s important to find someone who understands the unique stressors that come with farming, such as the financial pressures, isolation, or the extreme environmental factors farmers can face. A mental health professional who understands the agricultural industry can relate more easily, making the connection between you and them often more meaningful.  

What qualifications and accreditations do they hold?

Verifying that the professional is qualified and with a registered body ensures that they are held to the highest standards of practice, ethics and professional conduct. 

Three key registered organisations to look for include: 

• AHPRA – Australian Health Practitioners Regulations Agency: The registered body for psychologists
• AASW – Australian Association of Social Workers: The registered body for Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSW) 
• ACA – Australian Counselling Association: The registered body for counsellors and psychotherapists. 

What type of therapy or approach do they use?

There are many therapy approaches available and it can be challenging to know what works best for you. However, farmers often prefer practical, goal-oriented options like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Solution-Focused Therapy. It’s also important to ensure the professional is trauma-informed (uses a strengths-based approach following principles of safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, empowerment and respect for diversity). Don’t be afraid to ask about their approach to therapy. 

Do they offer flexible session options?

Given the unpredictable and demanding nature of farming, flexible appointment times (including evenings or weekends) and remote options like telehealth (online) or phone sessions might be important to consider.  

Are they someone I feel comfortable talking to?

Feeling comfortable and being able to build trust with a mental health professional is crucial for effective therapy. Finding a mental health professional who offers a 15-minute phone consult is often a good way for you to see if you feel you can connect with the professional.  

How do they maintain confidentiality?

A good mental health professional will explain how they ensure confidentiality, especially in smaller communities. Asking them how they maintain confidentiality can give you the confidence to know that what you talk about will stay between only you and your mental health professional.   

What are their fees, and do they accept rebates?

Ask about session fees, if they accept Medicare rebates, private health insurance, or if they offer bulk billing. Knowing the cost upfront can reduce financial stress. 

How long do they typically work with clients?

Some farmers may prefer short-term, solution-focused therapy, while others may benefit from long-term support. It’s helpful to understand the professional’s typical engagement style and flexibility. 

Are there any available testimonials or reviews?

Hearing from others who have used the professional’s services can provide insight into their effectiveness, particularly those from within the farming or rural community. Talking to a trusted GP or local community health provider can also help identify well-regarded mental health professionals in your area. GPs can diagnose and treat some mental health conditions as well as provide advice about, and referral to, other mental health professionals. 

What are the types of mental health professionals who can help me?

• Counsellors provide a safe and confidential space for people to explore their mental health and wellbeing. Counsellors can help you with a wide range of mental health, alcohol and other drug related concerns. Medicare rebates may be available. 
• Psychologists provide therapy (but do not prescribe medication) and treatments to help you manage stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and other mental health alcohol and other drug issues. Medicare rebates may be available. 
• Accredited Mental Health Social Workers handle the assessment and treatment of psychological disorders. They adopt a holistic, practical approach by helping clients address psychological factors while identifying and tackling external stressors and issues affecting wellbeing (such as social connections, family dynamics, and broader social systems). Medicare rebates may be available. 
• Psychiatrists are medical doctors with specialised training in mental health. They can diagnose and treat mental illness, using talking therapies and/or medication. Medicare rebates may be available. 

Finally, remember, there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to finding a mental health professional that suits your needs. It’s often necessary to try a couple of people before you find a good match for you, but don’t give up if it’s not a great fit the first time. Persevere! 

Fast facts:

• There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to finding the right mental health professional for you.
• There are many types of health professionals working in mental health care – each with different skills, qualifications and approaches to treatment and support. 
• Booking a brief introductory consultation with a mental health professional can give you an opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of how well they fit with your needs. 

Prepared in collaboration with Sarah Crosthwaite (Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW))  

Farmer Health eNews February 2025

Find out the latest from the National Centre for Farmer Health

• Introducing the new Farmer Health Support Hub!
• Tackling the Tough Topics: Step-by-step guide now available
• Welcome to our new ag health clinician, Lisa Wieske!
• Back on Track: Last chance to register

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A systematic review of healthcare experiences of women and men living with coronary heart disease

Background

Heart disease is a leading cause of death and disability across the world. Women with heart disease have worse short- and long-term outcomes when compared to men, especially for those with lower education levels, living rurally and belonging to an ethnic minority. Women are also more likely to die during their hospital admission.  

The findings from this review pointed to four themes:  

1. The assumption that coronary heart disease (CHD) is a man’s disease, and that women were uncertain about their own symptoms mistaking them as fatigue, or old age.  

2. Women often delayed seeking help, not wanting to bother others, and cited staff shortages and long waiting times especially in rural areas.  

3. Health care interactions: women described not being listened to by health professionals and dismissed being labelled a nuisance or hypochondriac.  

4. Women as wives were commonly the reason men sought help for CHD, however this was not reported as reciprocated.  

Key points

• CHD is a women’s disease and efforts need to be made through health services and general community health education to dispel gendered perceptions, such that CHD is a ‘male disease’  

• Build awareness on the unsafe role of socialised gender norms on women’s health seeking behaviour and assist women to recognise early signs and symptoms, that can differ to men’s and seek help in a timely manner. 

• Develop gender competences in the medical curricula and challenge health professionals, organisations and health systems to be accountable for the bias male experiences.

Find out more

For more information contact first author Helen Brown (Deakin University) at h.brown@deakin.edu.au or Susan Brumby (National Centre for Farmer Health) at susan.brumby@wdhs.net  

You can also visit https://www.nature.com/articles/s44294-024-00043-x

Image courtesy of Agriculture Victoria.