Support available for farmers affected by fires and drought

FARMERS and communities impacted by the recent Grampians fires and ongoing drought in the south-west region are being encouraged to seek specialist wellbeing support.

Agriculture Victoria and the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) Victoria West are offering assistance, including financial counselling and wellbeing support to help with mental stresses linked to financial challenges.

Acting director of agriculture services, Aimee McCutcheon, said support is available for those who need it.

“In addition to financial counselling, the RFCS Victoria West service offers wellbeing support to help with mental stresses resulting from financial issues,” Ms McCutcheon said.

RFCS provides assistance to farmers and small business owners to develop coping strategies, recognise signs of poor health, establish support networks, identify community groups and activities, and access health services through referrals.

Wellbeing counsellors are available, and Agriculture Victoria is also coordinating events across the region to help farmers connect and support each other.

“We know that farmers getting together in the paddock or local hall to share experiences, learn and support each other is incredibly important during times of stress,” Ms McCutcheon said.

Further resources are available through the National Centre for Farmer Health’s Support Hub, which provides assistance to producers and families affected by dry conditions and fires.

For those in need of support, local doctors and community wellbeing services are also available.