Prioritising mental health in dairy

In the busy world of dairy farming, maintaining productivity and wellbeing is all too often a significant challenge.

In 2023, the National Farmer Wellbeing Report – commissioned by Norco, in partnership with the National Farmers’ Federation – found that in recent years, nearly half of Australian farmers (45%) have felt depressed, with almost two-thirds (64%) experiencing anxiety. For one in seven (14%), it’s a frequent experience.

Western Victoria's Matt Grant and Renata Cumming work hard to ensure a balance between productivity and health on their 430-hectare dairy farm, where they manage 500 Holstein cows.

Operating across leased and owned land at Naringal near Warrnambool and Scotts Creek near the Twelve Apostles, their grass-based operation combines rotational grazing with seasonal forage cropping and supplements to ensure year-round milk production, with calving in January and April-May.

Despite fluctuating markets and unpredictable weather, Matt and Renata prioritise wellbeing to build a healthy workplace culture and ensure farm operations run smoothly.

“Creating structure allows the team to make plans, but flexibility is key. It’s give and take, and supporting each other,” says Matt.

Their roster gives their three full-time staff and a part-time retired dairy farmer the same day off each week, allowing the freedom to plan. 

“Making sure everyone has a proper break before the afternoon milking keeps things calm. You can feel the difference with the cows. When we’re calm, they’re calm, and everything flows better,” Renata says.

Central to their philosophy is open communication to help mitigate stress. Every Monday, Matt and Renata hold team meetings to plan the week ahead, address any issues, and even engage in light-hearted activities like rating Renata’s latest baking creations.

As Renata and Matt’s experience shows, fostering wellbeing doesn’t require grand gestures.

"Sometimes, it’s the little things that make all the difference,” Matt says.

“We’re just trying to build the workplace and home we’d want to be part of – a place where people feel respected and supported,” Renata adds.

These simple acts not only strengthen team cohesion but provide a safe space for staff to voice concerns and collaborate on solutions, effectively reducing workplace stress.

Dairy Australia's National People Lead, Mick Fuller, agrees that proactive measures are vital in creating a healthy work environment.

“Farmers often prioritise their animals and farm ahead of their own health,” he says.

“And mental health is just as important as physical health – if not more. If farmers could prioritise their health and invest a couple of hours for an annual check-up with their GP, that in itself would be a good start.”

The risks for rural men, particularly farmers, are highlighted by Movember. Isolation, extreme work hours, and limited mental health services contribute to a suicide rate nearly 59 per cent higher than Australia’s general population.

Dairy Australia is working with its teams across eight regions, offering face-to-face and online courses, events, and resources supporting farmers with the tools.

These include the People in Dairy website and Farm Safety manual, including updated chapters developed with the National Centre for Farmer Health to promote farmer and employee health and wellbeing across the industry’s 4,000-plus dairy farms.

Mick emphasises that these resources aren’t just for times of crisis – they’re designed to build long-term resilience and improve the mental well-being of farmers and their teams.

Beyond the farm, Matt and Renata regularly participate in group events with fellow dairy farmers, such as the Port Campbell Dairy Discussion Group, a private farm business analysis group, WestVic Dairy and YDN Field Day as well as social events to learn, share and develop best practices.

“One of the greatest resources is other farmers,” Matt says, appreciating shared experiences and the feeling of knowing you’re not in this alone.

“Talking openly, with each other and the team helps us feel confident in the decisions we’re making,” says Renata.

“Seeking advice from trusted industry professionals, such as our consultant, banker, accountant, and nutritionist also helps.”

These collaborative approaches not only drive farm efficiencies but foster a culture of openness and support among farmers.
 

‘Weather it together’ is a movement by farmers, for farmers.

It’s a call to action, to keep connected, let go of what you can’t control, get active, and if necessary ask for professional mental health support.

It’s about farmers supporting farmers through tough seasons.

It’s a friendly reminder to look after ourselves, and each other. Because sticking together and talking things through, really does lighten the load.

We’ve made it this far.

Whatever it is, we’ll weather it together.

Tackling the tough topics

If you are thinking about suicide, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If your life is in immediate danger, call 000.

Life can sometimes be overwhelming. Times of isolation, lockdown, drought and other challenges can cause people to experience distress, including anxiety and depression. In times like these, it's important to know that you're not alone.

With a little help, you can employ tools and strategies to work through tough times and build stronger mental health and wellbeing – making you, your family and your business more resilient.

Suicide Prevention Action Plan

Suicide is a far-reaching issue that can have long-lasting effects on individuals, families, and communities. A multitude of complex factors can contribute to someone’s distress but with the right support many deaths by suicide are preventable. The Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) is committed to playing our part in the prevention of suicide and supporting South Australians impacted by suicide. The primary industries, regional communities and our staff who support them experience some complex and multi-faceted factors that have the potential to contribute to distress such as: 

• Economic pressures
• Social isolation and remote working conditions
• Roles that involve first responder responsibilities (whether in their work role or in community roles)
• Psychosocial risk factors such as emotionally demanding work
• Global events and geopolitical tensions that can cause trade disruptions and market fluctuations.
• Climatic conditions and adverse events (droughts, bushfires, floods, frost, hail, pests, and disease outbreaks)

PIRSA's Family and Business (FaB) Mentors are available to help primary producers navigate challenging times.

This is a free service in South Australia, identifying assistance specific to your situation.

https://www.pir.sa.gov.au/emergencies_and_recovery/funding_and_support/fabm

PIRSA SA Assistance guide for Primary Producers 

https://pir.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/470731/sa-assistance-guide-primary-producers.pdf

If you or someone you know needs help, contact 

Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or visit the Beyond Blue website. 

You can also contact Lifeline on 13 13 14. 

Regional Wellbeing Survey - 2025    

Since 2013, the University of Canberra’s Regional Wellbeing Survey has examined wellbeing and liveability across Australia. Findings from this survey are used to help improve the lives of people living in communities across Australia.

If you’re short on time, we give you the option of a shorter 20-30 minute survey.

If you need assistance or have any questions, call us on 1800 981 499 between 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday. For more information about the survey, how we ensure your response is kept confidential and anonymous, see our information sheet.