Almost three years after releasing the inaugural National Farmer Wellbeing Report, Norco Australia’s oldest 100 per cent farmer-owned dairy co-operative and the National Farmers’ Federation, the peak national body for Australia’s farm sector, have announced the next chapter in this landmark national research.
Launched to coincide with Mental Health Month, the survey comes at a fitting time to spotlight the wellbeing of the people who power Australian agriculture.
It’s a timely reminder behind every farm are people whose wellbeing is vital to the strength of our communities and our nation’s food supply.
The survey is open to all people working in Australian farming and agriculture, across all regions, commodities and business sizes.
Findings will be analysed and released in late March 2026, marking the third anniversary of the inaugural report.
The initial report helped drive the formation of the Coalition for Mental Health and Wellbeing in Agriculture, now with over 60 members uniting to advocate for tailored, evidence-based support for farmer mental health and wellbeing.
Norco and the NFF are members of this coalition.
Norco chief executive Michael Hampson said farmers were the backbone of this country, and their wellbeing underpins the future of Australian agriculture.
“Through droughts, floods, fires and market volatility, they’ve shown extraordinary resilience. But we know these pressures take a toll.
“This research is about ensuring farmer voices are heard, so we can build a clear picture of how they’re really faring today, and what’s needed to safeguard their health, livelihoods and industry for generations to come,” Michael said.
NFF president Hamish McIntyre said the wellbeing of our farmers was fundamental to the strength of the entire agricultural sector.
“This is a truly national effort, and it will only succeed if people in agriculture know about it and take part,” Hamish said.
“We’re proud to partner with Norco, a farmer owned co-operative, on this important work, and we encourage farmers across the country to have their say.
“Every response matters: the more voices, the stronger the message we can take forward to help drive meaningful change for the sector.”
The survey captures perspectives on physical and mental health, sources of stress, industry confidence, resilience, the impacts of natural disasters, and attitudes towards the future of farming.
Findings will highlight where action is most urgently needed and inform future efforts to better support Australian farmers, helping to build a stronger and more sustainable agricultural sector for years, and generations to come.
Farmers can complete the survey at www.norco.com.au/farmer-wellbeing
Norco and NFF are working together to ensure the people who sustain our farms are supported, valued and set up for long-term success.