Rural Aid: Supporting South Australian Farmers through Drought and Beyond
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