The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath is encouraging farmers to embrace the theme of this year’s Farm Safety Week, “Set the Standard – Show ‘Em How It’s Done”, by making safety and wellbeing a priority.
Farm Safety Week runs from July 19 to 25 and serves as a timely reminder that each day on the land comes with significant risks and challenges for farmers.
Ms Bath said Farm Safety Week is an opportunity for primary producers to reflect on and recommit to safer work practices on the farm.
“The ‘Set the Standard’ theme serves as a reminder that leadership and daily decisions are key to creating safer farms and stronger rural communities,” Ms Bath said.
“Farming is a way of life, but it is also one of Australia’s highest risk industries, from operating heavy machinery and managing livestock to working long hours, often in isolation.”
Ms Bath said having grown up on a dairy farm, she understands the value of the industry and the commitment farmers make.
“Farmers are incredibly hardworking and resilient, but they are not invincible – preventing accidents must remain a key priority.
“As well as adopting safe work practices, Farm Safety Week is an excellent time to prioritise farmer wellbeing.
“Balancing the pressures of farming can be physically and mentally draining, as they work around the clock to care for livestock and manage cropping activities.
“In all conditions, farmers make difficult decisions about their work, livelihoods and future.
“As a community it’s important we respect and acknowledge the vital contributions of primary producers and ensure they have access to support, so they don’t face the challenges alone.
“Farmers are the backbone of our communities – let’s use this week to start conversations about safety and wellbeing and celebrate the importance of our primary producers.”
For more information on Farm Safety Week, visit www.farmsafe.org.au
