This week is National Farm Safety Week, and Farmsafe Australia’s ‘In Safe Hands’ campaign extends the regular work, health and safety conversation beyond physical safety to address the role of wellbeing in our capacity to make safe decisions on farm.
Farmsafe Australia chair Felicity Richards emphasises the holistic approach of the ‘In Safe Hands’ campaign.
"Farm safety extends beyond seat belts and helmets; it encompasses the mental wellbeing of our farmers, their families, and the workforce,“ she said.
“By normalising talking about what we are going through and reaching out when we are struggling, we provide a safe space for workers through the ups and downs of farm life.
“This is what it looks like to keep our workers in safe hands.”
Farming can be mentally and emotionally demanding, and the isolation of rural life can contribute to risks that are not as easily seen and assessed, the way physical risks might be.
The ‘In Safe Hands’ campaign aims to raise awareness about mental health challenges, reduce the stigma associated with talking about these issues, and provide tangible support to help farmers and their families navigate stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
The campaign features National Farmers’ Federation president David Jochinke discussing the importance of prioritising more than just the physical health of his workers and his community.
For Mr Jochinke, safety isn’t just a conversation, it’s taking action to create a culture where workers go home in the same condition, if not better, than they arrived.
He acknowledges that creating a safer environment to operate in includes creating a space that is respectful and allows for individuals to feel safe being themselves.
‘In Safe Hands’ encourages individuals to reach out, seek support, and prioritise their mental wellbeing, instead of pushing through.
The campaign encourages open conversation, promotes simple strategies for individual wellbeing, and provides networks and resources for farmers, family members, and the farm workforce.
To find out more, visit: https://www.farmsafe.org.au