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Mental health support

Australian farmers are currently facing some of the most challenging conditions experienced in living memory. If you or someone you know is distressed, in crisis, suicidal or needs someone to talk to, help is available. The following services provide support for those in need.

In an emergency, call 000.

Crisis response (contemplations of self-harm)

For more information on what help is available to you and your community please visit:

One on one mental health advice

Professional consultation will require the patient to visit their GP for a referral to a qualified specialist.

  • PSYCH2U is a virtual practice that facilitates access to a psychologist or psychiatrist from across Australia. Those in rural localities will be bulk billed, however there are some criteria depending on your location. For psychologists you are only eligible to be bulk billed if you are in a remote area but for psychiatrists you are eligible to be bulked billed in all rural and remote areas. To make an appointment, you will need a GP referral.
  • Call to Mind is a virtual practice that facilitates access to a psychiatrist from across Australia. The team comprises of different psychiatrists, who can cater for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Those in rural and remote areas will be bulk billed. To make an appointment, you will need a referral from a GP

Rural assistance

These sites provide telephone counselling services targeted at rural communities and can cover issues including drought, isolation and depression.

  • Suicide Call Back Service provides free counselling for suicide prevention and mental health through telephone, online and video for anyone affected by suicidal thoughts, 24/7. P: 1300 659 467
  • MensLine Australia is available 24/7 via phone or online. Professional counsellors can provide support with men's mental health, relationship & divorce matters, emotional well-being and social connection. P: 1800 903 919
  • CRANA plus Bush Support Line provides counselling over the telephone (24/7) for rural and remote health service providers and their families. It is staffed by registered psychologists who have experience working in rural and remote areas. P: 1800 805 391.
  • Department of Agriculture's Farmer Assistance Hotline -​​ The Department takes mental health, well-being and suicide in rural and regional Australia seriously. They recognise that people living and working on farms are subject to economic, climatic and social pressures and therefore offer services online or via phone 13 23 16.

Regional assistance

Regional services based in regional, rural and remote areas providing services to their local communities to promote health and wellbeing.

  • NCFH - National Centre for Farmer Health provides leadership in research, education, information and service delivery to improve health, wellbeing and safety for farmers and farm workers. P: (03) 5551 8533

Regional services based in regional, rural and remote areas are providing services to their local communities to promote mental health and wellbeing.

Mental health lines available for your state:

Self-help

Offering tools and tips to manage professional, family and economic pressure for families and organisations during times of stress.

  • MoodGYM is an interactive online program designed to prevent depression. It consists of five modules, an interactive game, anxiety and depression assessments, downloadable relaxation audio, a workbook and feedback assessment. MoodGYM was designed and developed by staff at the Centre for Mental Health Research at the Australian National University.
  • myCompass is a self-help service aiming to promote resilience and wellbeing for all Australians. myCompass is a guide to good mental health. You can track your moods, write about them and view information and tips. You can also choose to do one of the modules designed to help you manage mild to moderate stress, anxiety and depression.
  • Australian Mens Shed Association is funded by the Federal Government to provide preliminary and ongoing practical support for the development of Men’s Sheds. P: 1300 550 009 E: msa@mensshed.net
  • R U OK? - encourages and empowers others to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a discussion with anyone who may be struggling. Click here to learn how to ask the question.
Need financial assistance? Call the Drought and Farmer Assistance Hotline on 13 23 16.