GROWERS URGED TO LOOK AFTER THEIR OWN WELLBEING

GrainGrowers is encouraging farmers to make use of free mental health resources, following new findings showing more than one in three Australian farmers are experiencing moderate to high psychological distress.

The 2026 Farmer Wellbeing Report found psychological distress among farmers has increased by 40% over the past decade, while 54% say they have felt depressed or down in the past two years.

However, the research also found strong levels of support within farming communities, with 67% of farmers saying they would feel comfortable supporting another farmer experiencing mental health challenges.

GrainGrowers Chief Executive Shona Gawel says growers are often quick to check in on a neighbour or lend a hand, but may be less likely to recognise when they need support themselves.

The organisation’s free Right Now resources were developed with South Australian grain grower and registered psychologist Steph Schmidt, covering issues including stress, loneliness, constant worry and reaching out for help.

The resources are available as downloadable videos through the GrainGrowers website and as audio through Spotify, and can be stored on a smartphone for access in areas with limited connectivity.