Rural Aid Mobilises Support for Beekeepers Amid Growing Varroa Mite Threat
As the destructive Varroa mite continues to spread, now confirmed in beehives in Victoria’s Gippsland region, Rural Aid is urging beekeepers and all primary producers affected by the outbreak to access the vital support services available through the charity.
The detection of the Varroa mite, a parasitic pest that attacks honeybees, poses a significant threat to Australia’s beekeeping industry, the agricultural sector, and the nation’s food supply chain. With pollination critical to the productivity of crops like almonds, apples, berries, and many vegetables, the ripple effect of this biosecurity issue extends well beyond apiaries.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters acknowledged the serious threat posed by the Varroa mite outbreak and confirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting impacted beekeepers as well as the broader farming community.
“Bees are our littlest livestock, but they are essential to the health of many Australian farms and food industries,” said Mr Warlters.
“The Varroa mite threatens not only honey but the pollination that underpins our crops and fruit production. Protecting beekeepers is protecting the entire food chain.
Rural Aid provides a range of free, confidential and practical support services to farmers and producers across the country, including:
- Financial assistance
- Counselling and wellbeing check-ins
- Domestic water and water tank deliveries
- Hay donations
- Farm army job platform
- Educational resources
- Community building initiatives
Rural Aid’s support isn’t limited to traditional broadacre or livestock producers. The charity proudly assists farmers across a wide range of industries, including aquaculture, horticulture, viticulture, organic production, dairying and apiary operations. These sectors often fly under the radar but are essential to Australia’s food security, export success, and regional economies. The Varroa mite situation highlights just how vulnerable every part of the agricultural system can be, regardless of size or commodity.
Rural Aid is committed to ensuring all primary producers know they are eligible for support and that they don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.
“At Rural Aid, we believe no primary producer should be left to struggle in silence,” Mr Warlters said.
“No matter what you grow, farm or produce, if you’re doing it tough, we’re here to help.”
Registering for Assistance:
Primary producers impacted by the Varroa mite outbreak, or facing hardship for any reason, are encouraged to register with Rural Aid today via www.ruralaid.org.au/services-provided/ or by calling 1300 327 624.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, dedicated to providing practical support and vital services to farmers and rural communities. Since its establishment in 2015, the charity has been a lifeline during times of crisis, delivering essential services such as mental health support, hay, domestic water, and community engagement. As the organisation celebrates 10 years of service, it continues to partner with farmers to navigate challenges, recover from hardship, and build stronger, more resilient futures, shaping a brighter future for rural Australia.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au