Celebrating Australian Farmers this National Agriculture Day
Rural Aid is proudly celebrating National Agriculture Day on Friday 21 November, as an opportunity to thank the people who grow our food and nurture the land that sustains us all.
From the grain belts to the cattle country and everywhere in between, farmers are the backbone of the nation, producing the food and fibre that feeds and clothes families across Australia and around the world.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said that behind every harvest and herd are farmers facing challenges such as drought, floods, fires, rising costs, and the everyday pressures of life on the land.
“Every day we see the heart, determination and resilience of those who work the land,” Mr Warlters said. “National Agriculture Day is a chance to acknowledge their incredible contribution to the country, and to remind Australians that standing with farmers is vital to sustaining our communities and economy.”
Agriculture is a major contributor to Australia’s prosperity. In 2024–25, the sector is set to be valued at a record $101.6 billion, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. In 2023-24, agriculture generated 10.8 per cent of goods and services exports, valued at $71.5 billion, contributed 2.4 per cent of national gross domestic product, and employed more than 315,000 people, equating to 5.9% of rural employment.
Rural Aid provides practical support to farmers, including hay and water deliveries, financial assistance, volunteer programs, counselling, and long term community initiatives. Initiatives such as Buy A Bale enable all Australians to show their support and help farming families when they need it most.
“Farmers show up for us rain, hail or shine,” Mr Warlters said. “At Rural Aid, we are proud to stand beside them and help shoulder the burden when life on the land becomes tough.”
“Rural Aid is calling on Australians to ‘Buy a Bale or Fill a Tank’ this National Agriculture Day to help deliver essential support farming families desperately need.”
“Every dollar makes a real difference,” Mr Warlters said. “If you can, please give hope to the farming families who provide our food and fibre. Help us deliver hay, water and counselling to those who need it most.”
To donate or learn more, visit www.buyabale.ruralaid.org.au.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au