Premier

Second Year Of Counselling Support For Dairy Farmers In Victoria

30 March 2017

The Andrews Labor Government is standing by our dairy farmers who are continuing to face financial pressure in the wake of problems in the dairy sector, by extending crucial mental health support for another year.

Last year the Labor Government announced a $1.5 million package of mental health supports for dairy farmers, in response the global fall in milk prices and decisions by some processors to cut the prices paid to their suppliers.

The package included funding for mental health first aid training, counselling, community grants and services such as the VFF’s Look Over The Farm Gate and the National Centre for Farmer Health.

All of these initiatives have been developed and implemented over the past 12 months. Today’s announcement confirms that counselling and support programs will continue in 2017-18 in impacted areas.

To ensure the support provided meets the needs of dairy farmers, the Government has consulted with farmers and their families, and worked with local health services, community groups and industry.

If you or someone you know needs help or advice call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley

“The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring early intervention for people who are at risk of or experiencing mental illness, to promote the safety and wellbeing of everyone in our community.”

“I am extremely impressed at the innovative services that have been provided to support our dairy farmers and their communities.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford

“This is very welcome news for dairy farming families who have been doing it tough.”

“While the season ahead looks more promising, many of our farmers are still feeling financial pressures. This is why the Labor Government will continue to give our dairy families the support they need.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“Our dairy farmers contribute so much to our plates and our economy, but they and their communities are still doing it tough. It's crucial that we support them in every way we can until prices increase and milk cheques can meet the cost of working in this industry."

Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes

“We will continue to put farmers and their families first by providing them with the support they need to look after themselves when times are tough.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney

“Agriculture and farming families sit at the heart of rural and regional Victoria, and we will continue to provide them with the support they need to look after themselves.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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