Category: News

Rural Aid Celebrates 10 Years of Supporting Farmers and Rural Communities

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Rural Aid, a leading charity dedicated to supporting farmers and rural communities across Australia, is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025. The significant milestone began on Friday 28th February with a live broadcast from Suncorp Stadium as part of Channel Nine’s Today Show, alongside a special breakfast event attended by dignitaries, launching a year-long celebration of a decade of service to rural Australia.

Since its establishment in 2015, Rural Aid has played a crucial role in providing relief and support during some of the most challenging times for farmers and rural communities. Over the past decade, the organisation has worked diligently to assist farmers through natural disasters, financial strain, and mental health challenges, contributing to the strength and resilience of rural Australia.
 
Rural Aid CEO, Mr John Warlters, stated, “Reaching the 10-year mark is a significant achievement for Rural Aid and reflects the commitment of our team, donors, and partners. Our work over the past decade has made a meaningful difference to many, but our mission continues. We remain dedicated to providing the practical solutions and long-term support that farmers need to thrive and sustain rural Australia’s agricultural and economic strength.”
 
10-Year Impact Report Highlights
 
In recognition of this important anniversary, Rural Aid has released a comprehensive 10 Year Impact Report, which details the significant milestones and outcomes achieved over the past decade. The report provides an overview of the many ways in which Rural Aid has supported farmers and rural communities across Australia, including:

  • Over $125 million in donations to allow Rural Aid to provide vital assistance
  • More than 160,000 bales of hay delivered to farms bringing vital sustenance to livestock in need.
  • 90+ million litres of clean water provided to farmers and their families, ensuring they have clean water for washing, bathing and drinking.
  • Over $25 million in financial assistance, giving disaster-impacted farmers the support they need to stand strong and recover.
  • 13,000+ free counselling sessions offering a critical lifeline of mental support for farmers and their families.
  • 1,000+ community events attended.

These accomplishments represent the collective effort of Rural Aid’s supporters, volunteers, and staff, and demonstrate the significant impact of the organisation’s work in strengthening rural Australia. The full 10 Year Impact Report is available here.
 
Pulse of the Paddock: 2nd Edition
 
Alongside its 10th anniversary celebrations, Rural Aid has released the Pulse of the Paddock 2nd Edition, a report that highlights the voices of nearly 700 farmers from across Australia. This edition provides an in-depth look at the ongoing challenges faced by farmers, with a particular focus on mental health and financial pressures.
 
The report reveals concerning statistics, with one in five farmers (21%) reporting a decline in their mental health over the past year. Additionally, 58% of farmers indicated that their mental health was below average. These figures reflect the deepening mental health crisis in the farming community, driven by the compounding effects of financial strain and environmental challenges.
 
Despite these ongoing difficulties, the report also underscores the positive impact of Rural Aid’s support. 93% of farmers reported that the assistance provided by Rural Aid had a positive effect, while 99% found the support directly relevant to their needs. Moreover, 61% of farmers indicated they would seek counselling for personal support. These findings highlight the significant role Rural Aid plays in helping farmers navigate these tough times, offering both practical solutions and emotional support.
 
Mr Warlters emphasised, “The findings from the Pulse of the Paddock are a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by farmers. Mental health remains a critical issue, and the need for continued support is more pressing than ever. Rural Aid is committed to helping farmers navigate these difficulties, providing them with the resources and assistance they need to recover and thrive.”
 
The Pulse of the Paddock 2nd Edition is available here.
 
Looking Ahead: Continued Support for Rural Australia
 
As Rural Aid celebrates its 10th anniversary, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting farmers and rural communities. The work of Rural Aid continues to evolve in response to the challenges farmers face, with a particular focus on long-term recovery, financial stability, and mental health support.
 
Mr Warlters concluded, “The past decade has been a testament to the resilience of rural Australia and the effectiveness of our collective efforts. While significant progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. Rural Aid will continue to be there for farmers, providing essential relief and support as they work to overcome the challenges ahead. Our mission is to ensure that rural Australia remains strong and resilient for the generations to come.”
 
Rural Aid relies on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and businesses to provide vital support for our farmers. Please donate today www.ruralaid.org.au/donate.

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

Source: The Land

Rural Aid: Supporting South Australian Farmers through Drought and Beyond

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Rural Aid, Australia’s leading rural charity, is dedicated to providing essential support to South Australian farmers impacted by drought. Farmers are encouraged to register for assistance as the charity continues to offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help during these challenging times. These services go beyond hay deliveries, encompassing domestic water, mental health support, financial aid, and more.

Supported by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA), Rural Aid is ensuring that hay reaches those who need it as efficiently as possible. PIRSA is subsidising transport costs for charitable organisations delivering hay right now as part of the $18million new drought support package announced on 26 November 2024, helping us to deliver essential hay to farmers, with resources sourced locally to strengthen the farming community.
 
The Hon. Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development and Minister for Forest Industries, said, “The State Government is proud to support charities such as Rural Aid to help deliver much needed fodder to South Australian farmers across the state who are dealing with some of the driest conditions on record.
 
As part of our $18 million drought support package, the State Government allocated $2 million to assist charities with the freight costs of transporting fodder to assist farmers with feeding livestock.
 
This has seen hundreds of truckloads of hay reach primary producers across the state, providing some immediate relief as we navigate these challenging times.
 
I thank Rural Aid and their volunteers for their hard work and dedication.”
 
As part of the State Government’s drought support package, Rural Aid will receive $125,000 to assist with transporting hay to drought affected South Australian farmers.
 
Rural Aid CEO, Mr John Warlters, said, “We are committed to providing the support farmers need across South Australia. Through our collaboration with PIRSA, we can continue to deliver crucial support efficiently, ensuring that those facing the impacts of drought have the assistance required to cope with these tough times.”
 
Since July 2024, Rural Aid has delivered over 1,600 bales of hay—approximately 1,000+ tonnes—to more than 100 farmers in drought-affected regions including Worlds End, Carrieton, Peterborough, Quorn, and beyond. This ongoing effort is part of a broader commitment to provide meaningful relief and assistance to those facing the harsh realities of drought.
 
Rural Aid offers a variety of services to assist farmers:

  • Hay Deliveries: Our hay deliveries are more than just a service—they’re a chance to connect. We share cuppas, catch-ups, and offer support, always ready to listen and help.
  • Water Deliveries: Access to water is crucial, and we’re here to provide long-term solutions. Our deliveries ensure farmers have what they need to keep going, offering a sense of security during tough times.
  • Mental Health & Wellbeing Support: Farmers carry a heavy load, and sometimes, a conversation is all it takes to make a difference. Our counsellors provide a safe space for farmers to talk, share their struggles, and find support when it’s needed most.
  • Financial Assistance: Our prepaid Visa cards help ease immediate pressures, giving farmers access to hay, supplies, and essentials so they can focus on the future.

Through its Community Development Programs, Rural Aid is also working alongside South Australian communities to build resilience, with community development activities underway in William Creek, Crystal Brook, Gladstone, Eudunda, and Orroroo – because strong farms and strong communities go hand in hand.

Mr Warlters added, “Our services are designed to provide holistic support to farmers, from immediate practical needs like water and hay to mental health assistance that helps farmers cope with the emotional challenges of drought. We’re proud to be working alongside PIRSA and other partners to ensure vital assistance reaches the communities that need it most.”

The collaboration with PIRSA ensures that these critical services continue to reach those in need. Farmers are encouraged to register for assistance today to access these valuable resources. Together, the goal is to ensure that no farmer has to face the challenges of drought alone.
 
If you’re a farmer register with Rural Aid to access support, visit https://faa.ruralaid.org.au/.
 
Rural Aid relies on the generosity of the public to continue to provide vital support for farmers and their families. You can help make a difference, please donate today at https://matesday.ruralaid.org.au/. 

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

Source: EP Advocate

Rural Aid Launches Mates Day Campaign: Help Aussie Farmers in Need

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Rural Aid is proud to announce the launch of its annual Mates Day Campaign, running from Monday, 17th February to Wednesday, 19th March. This year, the charity is aiming to raise $500,000 to support Aussie farmers in their time of need. The funds raised will go towards vital programs that provide financial aid, hay, clean drinking water, practical on-farm volunteer assistance, and mental health services for disaster-affected farming communities.

After years of relentless hardship—fires, floods, droughts, and plagues—our farmers continue to battle the devastating, ongoing effects of these crises. Many are struggling to recover, and Rural Aid is asking all Australians to lend a hand to help rebuild farms, restore hope, and renew strength in the bush.

“Australia’s farmers go through so much to put food on our tables, often battling extreme weather conditions to produce the best produce in the world. Their resilience is truly remarkable. Every plate of food tells a story—one shaped by perseverance, hope, and hard work,” said Rural Aid CEO, Mr. John Warlters.

This Mates Day, Rural Aid is calling on Australians to donate to help provide vital assistance such as farm recovery events. These events are crucial in helping farmers rebuild their livelihoods and get back on their feet after the devastating impact of recent disasters.

Farm recovery events involve up to 30 volunteers spending a week in a disaster affected community to provide hands-on assistance for farms in the area. They go beyond rebuilding farms—they rebuild communities. They unite people from all walks of life in a powerful show of solidarity. They remind our farmers, who work tirelessly to feed and clothe the nation, that they are deeply valued and cared for.

The recovery events offer practical, on-the-ground support helping farmers complete up to five years of work, in just a few days. Your contribution can make a vital difference by providing farmers with the resources they need to rebuild their futures.

“The resilience of our farmers is extraordinary. Rural Aid is here to ensure they don’t have to face these challenges alone,” said Mr. Warlters. “We are incredibly grateful to all those who give, no matter how big or small. Your support ensures farmers can rebuild and recover when natural disasters strike.

Make a difference this Mates Day—donate today and help ensure Australia’s farmers continue to thrive. Donations can be made at https://matesday.ruralaid.org.au/.

Together, we can help our farmers and rural communities rebuild after natural disasters.

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

Rural Aid’s 10-year milestone receives a welcome boost

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2025 marks a significant milestone for Rural Aid as it celebrates its 10th anniversary—and the occasion is set to be even more special with the support of the Australian Livestock & Property Agents Association Ltd (ALPA), which has named Rural Aid as its official charity partner for the year.

ALPA CEO Peter Baldwin said the decision to support Rural Aid was unanimous.

“The ALPA Board had no hesitation in selecting Rural Aid as our charity partner for 2025. Rural Aid’s mission aligns perfectly with our profession, our families, our staff, our clients, and the rural communities we serve across Australia. We share a vision of safeguarding rural communities, livestock, pasture, water, and crops before, during, and after natural disasters. We are proud to support this vital organisation that stands by rural Australians in their time of need.”

With deep roots in the agricultural sector, ALPA and Rural Aid are both deeply embedded in the daily lives of producers across the country. Rural Aid CEO John Warlters emphasised the natural synergy between the two organisations.

“At Rural Aid, we provide a crucial ‘hand up’ to those doing it tough. We understand that ALPA members are more than just agents—they often find themselves in the same challenging conversations as we do, supporting farmers through difficult times.”

The generosity of ALPA members towards Rural Aid will directly impact farmers, their families, and communities, offering crucial assistance before, during, and after disasters such as droughts, bushfires, and floods. Right now, Rural Aid is actively supporting drought-affected producers in South Australia, with assistance expected to continue for months based on Bureau of Meteorology forecasts, and in stark contrast families recovering from North Queensland’s devastating floods.

As part of its commitment, ALPA will host three Charity Auctions at its prestigious Young Auctioneers Dinners in Sydney, Brisbane, and Victoria/South Australia. Preparations are already underway for the 2025 ALPA National and New South Wales Young Auctioneers Dinner, set to take place at Dockside, Darling Harbour, on Thursday, 10 April.

For more information on Rural Aid’s work and how to support its initiatives, visit https://www.ruralaid.org.au/

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, providing mental health support, hay, domestic water and community engagement. Rural Aid partners with farmers to help them navigate challenges, recover from hardship, and build stronger, more resilient futures.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au

Luke Chandler Joins Rural Aid’s Board of Directors

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Rural Aid, Australia’s leading charity dedicated to supporting the agricultural community, is pleased to announce the appointment of Luke Chandler to its Board of Directors. Mr Chandler brings more than 25 years of international experience in the agribusiness sector, having worked across three continents with leading agricultural companies.

Mr Chandler currently serves as the Managing Director for John Deere Australia & New Zealand, where he is focused on bringing new technologies and innovative solutions to Australian & New Zealand farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency now and into the future. Prior to this role, Mr Chandler spent several years living in the United States, where he served as John Deere’s global Chief Economist.

“Rural Aid plays a crucial role in ensuring the resilience of Australia’s agricultural sector through a range of services that support farmers when they need it most, and I am honoured to be joining the Board of Directors,” Mr Chandler said. “Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have developed a blend of both global strategic experience and hands-on operational leadership, and I am looking forward to working alongside my fellow Directors and the Rural Aid team to add value to the organisation’s future direction across rural and regional Australia.”

Rural Aid chairman Alex Hutton welcomed the appointment of Mr Chandler to the Rural Aid Board, noting his ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, government and farmers, will be key in advancing the goals of Rural Aid and the broader agricultural sector.

“Mr Chandler’s extensive leadership experience, combined with his deep understanding of the agricultural sector, will be an asset to our organisation,” Mr Hutton said.

“We are confident that his strategic vision and governance expertise will help us navigate the evolving landscape of Australian agriculture and ensure that Rural Aid continues to play a vital role in shaping a strong and sustainable future for farming families and their communities.”

Rural Aid looks forward to the positive impact that Mr Chandler will bring to the Board as the organisation works to build a stronger and more vibrant Australian agricultural sector.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, providing practical support and services to farmers and rural communities. Established in 2015, the charity focuses on drought relief, mental health support, water access, and community engagement. Rural Aid works with farmers to help them recover, rebuild, and thrive in the face of adversity

For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au