Farmer wellbeing under the spotlight as new national mental health survey launched

Farmers have until December 15 to share their experiences in a wellbeing survey, three years after research found the true depth of the mental health challenges facing the sector.

Silhouette of farmer Mark Heinrich with son Jakob who is kicking dust on their property in Rainbow, Vic.

Farmers have been urged to have their say on how they are travelling, three years after a landmark study revealed the depth of the mental health challenges facing the sector.

The latest National Farmer Wellbeing Report is still seeking input from farmers - with the survey closing on December 15.

Backed by Norco and the National Farmers’ Federation, the report was designed to shine a light on the experiences of Australian farmers, with the second instalment to revisit the findings.

Norco chief executive Michael Hampson said farmers were the “backbone of this country, and their wellbeing underpins the future of Australian agriculture”.

“This research is about ensuring farmer voices are heard, so we can build a clear picture of how they’re really faring today, and what’s needed to safeguard their health, livelihoods and industry for generations to come,” he said.

NFF president Hamish McIntyre said farmer wellbeing was “fundamental to the strength of the entire agricultural sector”.

“Every response matters: the more voices, the stronger the message we can take forward to help drive meaningful change for the sector,” Mr McIntrye said.

It follows the inaugural 2023 survey, which indicated one in seven of the 1300 Australian farmers who responded had attempted suicide or self-harm over the past five years, while almost a third said their mental health had declined in the past three years.

In 2023 the farmers who responded reported their major stressors were weather and natural disasters, accounting for 47 per cent; financial stress at 36 per cent and cost pressures 35 per cent.

It prompted calls for governments to re-examine how they provide services in the regions, with farmers and psychologists saying farmers could be better served by health professionals visiting farms.

The latest round is open to all people working in Australian farming and agriculture, across all regions, commodities and business sizes. Findings will be analysed and released in late March 2026.

For details, visit www.norco.com.au/farmer-wellbeing