RURAL MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
It is normal for a distressing or frightening event to affect you physically, mentally and emotionally. Long-running fires in your local area can be extremely stressful and can trigger emotional, physical and psychological reactions.
If at any time you are worried about your mental health or the mental health of a loved one, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Our rural and regional communities are some of the most connected and stoic in Australia. The following resources are available as a reference for regional Victorian’s that require support.
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment – Social Support and Wellbeing
National Centre for Farmer Health – Emotional and Social Wellbeing Support
National Centre for Farmer Health – Managing Stress on the Farm
Victorian Farmers Federation – Rural Mental Health Resources
Farm Business Support Service
Dry Seasons Support – Victorian Government
Drought Assistance Information – Department of Agriculture & Water Resources
Drought Concessional Loans Scheme – Department of Agriculture & Water Resources
Drought Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme – Department of Agriculture & Water Resources
Farmer Assistance Line – 8am – 8pm Monday – Friday – 13 23 16
Farm Household Allowance – Department of Human Services – 13 23 16
Farm Management Deposits (FMD) – how to access your FMDs after a natural disaster – Australian Taxation Office – 13 28 66
Find a Rural Financial Counsellor – Department of Agriculture
Serious hardship and natural disasters – payment arrangements for paying tax in times of serious hardship and natural disasters
Taxation measures – The Australian Taxation Office can help people affected by drought.
Victorian Drought Concessional Loans – administered by Rural Bank
Your Bank’s Hardship Team Contact Details – Doing it Tough?
Rural Support Organisations
Agriculture Victoria – Dairy Support Page
Australian Men’s Shed Association
Australian Women in Agriculture
Country Women’s Association Australia