Months after disasters strike, Rural Aid continues supporting farmers through recovery
Earlier this year, floods, bushfires and cyclones caused widespread damage across rural communities right across Australia, but for many families the recovery journey is far from over.
Thanks to the generosity of Rural Aid supporters, hundreds of farming families have continued receiving practical and emotional support as they rebuild.
Rural Aid support between 1 January to 30 June 2026 has included:
- Financial support to more than 300 families.
- More than 4,000 hay bales to help farmers feed livestock.
- 114 water tanks to improve water resilience.
- Nearly 10 million litres of drinking water for 437 farming families.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the support delivered in the months following disaster was critical, as farmers worked through the long process of recovery.
“Natural disasters can change a farming family’s life in a matter of hours, but recovery takes much longer,” Mr Warlters said.
“Once the initial response is over, farmers are often left repairing fences, replacing damaged infrastructure, caring for livestock and working to get their businesses back on track.
“The reality is that many farmers can feel isolated when they are facing these challenges. Rural Aid is there to remind them they are not alone, providing practical assistance, wellbeing support and a connection to people who understand what they are going through.
“Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we can continue standing alongside farmers throughout their recovery journey.”
Alongside practical assistance, Rural Aid has continued expanding its wellbeing support across affected regions.
A new Rural Aid counsellor based in Cloncurry is helping farmers and rural communities in North West Queensland access support closer to home, while Rural Aid counsellors continue visiting Victorian communities impacted by bushfires.
For farmers, this support can make a lasting difference.
Fourth-generation dairy farmer Jason Cousins knows first-hand the importance of ongoing support after disaster. Following flooding on his farm near Singleton, NSW, Mr Cousins was contacted by Rural Aid and connected with counselling support.
“I still talk to them today. This is from back in 2022,” Mr Cousins said.
“I don’t know where I’d be today if it wasn’t for that lifeline of the Rural Aid lady ringing me up that day.”
Jason said ongoing counselling support helped him manage the challenges that followed.
“Talking to the Rural Aid counsellors helps you work through things and work out how to cope. It helps you get through those tough times.”
Farmer Nancy Pitkin, from Tenterfield, NSW, said Rural Aid’s practical support and wellbeing services made a meaningful difference during challenging periods.
“Rural Aid assisted us with fencing materials and hay, which was so appreciated, and they also provided mental health counselling,” Ms Pitkin said.
“When times are tough and someone like Rural Aid reaches out, they’re the little things that keep you above ground.”
Mr Warlters said Rural Aid’s commitment to farming communities extends well beyond the initial response to disaster.
“Recovery is not measured in days or weeks. For many farmers, it is a journey that takes months and years,” Mr Warlters said.
“Our commitment is to be there for farmers throughout that journey, providing support when they need it most and helping rural communities remain strong.”
Farmers needing support, or Australians wanting to help, can visit www.ruralaid.org.au or call 1300 327 624.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading charity supporting farmers, their families and rural communities. Rural Aid delivers practical assistance during drought, fire, flood and other disasters, helping farming families stay on the land and protect their livelihoods. Through disaster relief, mental health support and community development programs, Rural Aid works with partners, supporters and volunteers to strengthen rural communities and ensure farmers have the support they need to recover, rebuild and remain connected.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au