Category: News

Rural Aid Offers Critical Support Across the Country for Farmers Impacted by Floods and Severe Weather

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Australia is currently facing extreme weather events at opposite ends of the country. While parts of Queensland are flood-affected and some are beginning the clean-up, bushfires are affecting parts of Victoria and Western Australia. Concurrently, South Australia and Western Victoria are enduring drought.

Rural Aid is working hard to respond to the growing needs of farmers, though its resources are stretched across the country. The immediate impact of the floods requires urgent relief, including financial support and counselling, while drought-affected regions need ongoing assistance with hay, water, and long-term mental health services. These events require both immediate attention and sustained efforts to help communities recover and rebuild.

“We are seeing communities under immense pressure,” said Rural Aid CEO Mr John Warlters. “The impact of the floods is being felt by farmers, and their resilience is being tested. At the same time, the drought continues to challenge farmers and small businesses, with many needing support to continue their work.”

Rural Aid is here to offer critical support to farmers affected by these events. For those in flooded areas, we provide immediate relief, including financial aid, counselling, and hay. For farmers in drought-impacted regions, we offer ongoing assistance such as hay, water, and important mental health services to help them manage and rebuild. Rural Aid is committed to being there for the long haul to support farmers and their livelihoods.

Farmers—including cane , fruit and vegetable growers—are encouraged to register with us to access the help they need. Registration is the first step in receiving the vital resources and assistance required to recover after these challenging times.

Rural Aid’s ability to continue providing support also relies on the generosity of the public. As Mr. Warlters emphasised, “Thanks to donations, Rural Aid can deliver essential support year-round, ensuring that communities across Australia have the help they need during times of hardship.”

Rural Aid is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to adapt its response as the weather patterns evolve. We remain dedicated to supporting farmers and rural communities through these difficult times.

Farmers can register for assistance by visiting www.ruralaid.org.au/services-provided/.

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

Source: SheepCenttal

Supporting Aussie Farmers: ALH Hotels Teams Up with Rural Aid to Raise Funds for Drought Relief

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In a generous partnership with Rural Aid, ALH Hotels is launching a fundraising campaign to support Aussie farmers facing ongoing challenges. During February, $1 from every Parma sold at one of its 350+ pubs will be donated to Rural Aid, raising much-needed funds for our mates in the bush.

The money raised through the Parma for a Farmer campaign will help fund vital services provided by Rural Aid, which offers assistance to farmers across Australia, particularly those affected by drought, floods, and other natural disasters. Funds will directly support the mental health, financial stability, and overall wellbeing of Australian farming families.

Rural Aid CEO Mr John Warlters said Rural Aid is extremely grateful for the continued support of businesses like ALH Hotels.

“The funds raised will go a long way in providing much-needed assistance to farmers and their families, who are facing some of the toughest times of their lives. Every dollar donated makes a difference in the lives of those who feed and sustain our nation. This campaign will help fund vital services such as mental health support, water delivery, and financial assistance, ensuring that our farmers can continue to thrive,” he said.

Lukas McKay, General Manager of Operations at ALH Hotels, said he was proud to partner with Rural Aid once again to support our Aussie farmers. 

“Last year we were able to raise $154,770 through the initiative and we are determined to go even bigger this year with the help of our suppliers who have once again donated an incredible $50,000 to kick us off.”

“The Chicken Parma has long been a favourite on our menu, and we’re thrilled to turn every sale into an opportunity to give back.”

“By enjoying a meal at one of our ALH Hotels this February, our customers will be directly contributing to a cause that’s close to all of our hearts. We encourage everyone to join us in supporting our farmers and giving generously to this important initiative.”

“Rural Aid is a key player in providing critical support to the Australian farming community. The funds raised through this initiative will ensure that Rural Aid can continue to provide essential services such as mental health outreach, water delivery for drought-stricken regions, and financial assistance to help farmers navigate the financial strain caused by environmental challenges.”

Throughout February, diners are encouraged to visit their local ALH Hotel to enjoy a Parma, with $1 from each Parma sold going directly to Rural Aid. Direct donations to Rural Aid are also encouraged, with every contribution helping to sustain the efforts that keep our farmers going strong.

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.

About ALH Hotels
ALH offers a diverse hospitality experience including sports bars, bistros, restaurants, cafes, accommodation, nightclubs, live sports, racing and electronic gaming. Our hotels are located in capital cities and urban and regional centres across Australia. ALH employs over 15,000 people across Australia at more than 350 licensed venues. Our main business activities are pub operations such as bar, foods, accommodation, functions and entertainment.

ALH is committed to supporting local communities and improving the lives of Australians through initiatives like this partnership with Rural Aid.

For more information on how to support this campaign or to donate directly to Rural Aid, visit parma-for-a-farmer.ruralaid.org.au or head to your local ALH Hotel.

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

Sources:
The Land
The Australian
MSN.com
News.com.au
South Western Times
The Mercury
Geelong Advertiser

Aussie Farmers Desperately Needing Water: Rural Aid Responds with Free Water Tanks

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Rural Aid is calling for urgent support as overwhelming demand for water tanks grows among drought-affected farmers across Australia.

The charity has seen an unprecedented surge in requests from farmers in desperate need of clean, fresh drinking water. Every six months Rural Aid puts the call out for water tank applications with between 50 to 100 tanks available each round. Over 250 farmers were queued on the Rural Aid website this week waiting for applications to open, hoping to secure one of the free water tanks being offered.

Rural Aid purchases the water tanks and donates them to farmers in need. These tanks provide vital storage for water, enabling farmers to secure a reliable water supply for their families. The demand for these water tanks continues to far exceed what the organisation can supply, and without additional donations, Rural Aid will not be able to provide tanks to all the farmers who are requesting them.

“We are facing a situation where the demand is simply too great for us to meet,” said Rural Aid CEO, Mr. John Warlters. “Over 250 farmers have registered in just a short time, and unfortunately, we can only deliver 90 tanks in this round. These water tanks provide more than just water; they offer farmers the security and peace of mind that they can keep their families safe. The community has been very generous in its support of Rural Aid. Further support via a donation will help Rural Aid to respond to this unprecedent demand.”

Rural Aid has worked tirelessly to source and deliver over 500 water tanks to families in need, with a significant milestone achieved in December 2024 when the 500th tank was delivered to a family in Gilgandra, NSW. However, this relief remains out of reach for many others who are still waiting for assistance.

Rural Aid’s efforts are only made possible through the ongoing generosity of its donors, but with the number of applicants continuing to rise, the need for additional contributions has never been more urgent.

“Our team is doing everything we can to fulfil these requests, but the reality is that we cannot do it alone,” said Mr. Warlters. “We need the help of businesses and individuals to help us bridge the gap. Every donation, big or small, directly contributes to providing and filling more tanks and bringing relief to farmers who are struggling to provide clean water for their families.”

Rural Aid is calling on the public to donate, so the organisation can meet the overwhelming demand for water tanks and continue to provide life-saving support to those who need it most. The next round of water tank applications will open sometime after June, and farmers suffering from potable water shortages who are registered with Rural Aid will be able to apply.

“It is heartbreaking to know that we can’t fulfil every request at this time,” said Mr. Warlters. “But we are committed to doing everything we can to provide this essential resource to as many farmers as possible. We ask for the community’s continued generosity to help us answer the call.”

To make a donation today visit www.ruralaid.org.au

Source: GetRegional.com.au
Farming Ahead

About Rural Aid  
Rural Aid is Australia’s most trusted rural charity. We stand with our farmers when they need us most. Rural Aid provides critical support to farmers affected by natural disaster through financial, wellbeing and fodder assistance. Rural Aid’s community programs help create more sustainable communities by building stronger futures for all Australian farmers. Find out more at www.ruralaid.org.au 

For more information or interviews, please contact Rural Aid Media and Communications Officer Daniel Brown on 0447 116 757 or at daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au. 

Rural Aid Stands Strong for Australian Farmers Amidst Ongoing Challenges in 2025

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The summer of 2025 has brought continued hardship to drought-stricken farmers across much of South Australia. Despite hopes that the festive season might bring a change in weather and fortunes, those hopes have been unfulfilled, and the situation has only worsened for the hundreds of farmers, their families, and communities already facing severe challenges.

Rural Aid, however, remains steadfast in its mission to support these producers during their toughest times. CEO John Warlters expressed deep concern for farming communities, who are still enduring immense pressure with no reprieve in sight. “For many farmers, the Christmas period wasn’t a time of joy or respite. The drought didn’t take a holiday, and neither did the stress and hardship it brings,” he said. “Rural Aid is here to ensure that when farmers need help, they know they can count on us.”

As part of its ongoing efforts, Rural Aid has four hay drops scheduled towards the end of January in South Australia to assist farmers struggling with the devastating drought conditions. Additionally, the organisation stands ready to provide support to bushfire-affected farmers in Victoria’s Grampians region, as well as those in Western Australia, ensuring help is available where it’s needed most.

Since its establishment in 2015, Rural Aid has been there to provide crucial resources—such as hay, water, and financial assistance—and to offer mental health support to help farmers manage the emotional and physical toll these challenges take. As the organisation enters its 10th year, it remains focused on providing these vital services, recognising the ongoing and evolving needs of farmers.

“Our mission is to be there for farmers in their greatest times of need,” said Mr Warlters. “We understand the immense pressures they face, and we’re here to provide both immediate assistance and long-term support to help them rebuild and adapt.”

While much has been achieved in the past decade, the work is far from over. Rural Aid’s commitment to Australian farmers remains stronger than ever. Whether it’s through emergency relief, financial aid, or mental health services, Rural Aid continues to offer a helping hand to those in need.

“Our focus for 2025 and beyond is to provide ongoing support to farmers, addressing both the practical and emotional challenges they face. As we’ve seen over the past 10 years, no two years are the same, but our commitment to standing with farmers has never wavered. We will continue to be a reliable source of support as they navigate these tough times,” said Mr Warlters.

Through every season and every hardship, Rural Aid remains a trusted ally for Australian farmers, offering practical solutions and compassionate care to help them overcome the challenges ahead.

For more information on Rural Aid’s programs or to make a donation, visit www.ruralaid.org.au.

About Rural Aid  
Rural Aid is Australia’s most trusted rural charity. We stand with our farmers when they need us most. Rural Aid provides critical support to farmers affected by natural disaster through financial, wellbeing and fodder assistance. Rural Aid’s community programs help create more sustainable communities by building stronger futures for all Australian farmers. Find out more at www.ruralaid.org.au 

For more information or interviews, please contact Rural Aid Media and Communications Officer Daniel Brown on 0447 116 757 or at daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au. 

Last Chance to Support South Australian Farmers – Christmas Appeal Closing Soon 

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As Rural Aid’s annual Christmas Appeal draws to a close this week, it is the final opportunity to support South Australian farmers who are still grappling with the severe impacts of ongoing drought. 

The need for assistance remains critical, with farming families and rural communities continuing to face devastating challenges. Every donation helps provide much-needed relief, from food and water supplies to essential services and support for long-term recovery. 

Rural Aid urges Australians to make their contribution before the appeal concludes, ensuring that those in need can receive vital assistance to help them navigate these difficult times. 

Funds raised through the Christmas Appeal are providing essential emergency supplies, including fodder for livestock, fresh drinking water for families, and critical mental health services. In 2024 alone, Rural Aid has delivered over 1,500 bales of hay to South Australian farmers, as well as 374,000 litres of fresh drinking water. Recent hay drops have provided much-needed relief to farmers in the Mid-North of South Australia, but the situation remains dire and the need for donations continues. 

John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid, expressed his gratitude for the generosity shown so far. “We are deeply thankful for the response to this year’s Christmas Appeal, but the reality is that the need is still great. Together, we can continue to provide hope and relief during what has been an incredibly difficult year.” 

Mr Warlters said every farmer’s journey was unique and support was being directed to multiple states. “In Queensland, this has included delivering hay to bushfire-affected farmers at Forsayth in Etheridge Shire and financial assistance to grain growers at Jandowae who lost crops to severe storms, while in drought-parched western Victoria, Rural Aid continues to offer a ‘hand up’. This week’s heat wave conditions would only add to the hardship for producers where ever they were.” 

Leon Hams, a farmer from Canowie Belt in South Australia, shared how Rural Aid’s assistance has been a lifeline. “Rural Aid has provided vital relief, especially with the rising cost of hay. Without their support, I would have had no choice but to heavily destock. This donation has been a huge help, not just for farmers, but for the local communities who depend on agriculture. Thank you to everyone who has donated.” 

Mr Hams also urged his fellow farmers to reach out for help. “Don’t try to do this alone. Connect with other farmers, and if you’re in need, register with Rural Aid. There’s support available, and it’s important to ask for it.” 

There are only days left to contribute to this vital appeal. To donate and make a real difference, visit: https://buyabale2024.ruralaid.org.au 

About Rural Aid  
Rural Aid is Australia’s most trusted rural charity. We stand with our farmers when they need us most. Rural Aid provides critical support to farmers affected by natural disaster through financial, wellbeing and fodder assistance. Rural Aid’s community programs help create more sustainable communities by building stronger futures for all Australian farmers. Find out more at www.ruralaid.org.au 

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