Community-based mental health and wellbeing support programs will be available to South Australia’s drought-affected farmers
The South Australian government has invested an additional $1 million, as part of its Drought Support Package.
New targeted mental health and wellbeing support programs will now be available to the state’s farmers and regional communities impacted by drought.
“We’ve heard clearly from the sector that mental health support must be delivered by trusted people who are already part of our regional communities,” primary industries and regional development minister Clare Scriven says.
Three programs funded so far under this new initiative are now ready to begin community engagement.
Grassroots not-for-profit organisation Fat Farmers will establish eight new physical activity groups across drought-affected regional areas, building on its existing network of 23 community groups.
The program focuses on promoting mental wellbeing through social connection and exercise, tailored to local needs.
Breakthrough Mental Health Foundation will host a series of community wellbeing events and mental health first aid training sessions in regional towns.
These will include seven men’s and seven women’s-focused workshops, as well as seven first aid training sessions to equip locals with skills to support their communities.
Grain Producers SA will host five Great Grain Quiz Nights across drought-impacted areas, bringing community members together in a relaxed setting to promote social connection, conversation, and wellbeing.
“Our weekly Fat Farmers exercise sessions have had a huge positive impact on the farmers that have been attending,” team coordinator Amelia Rasheed says.
“It gives the farmers an hour every Tuesday morning, to get off the farm and take some time for themselves.
“It’s an important wellbeing initiative, allowing farmers to get together, have a laugh and get some exercise in too.”
