URGENT UPDATE: Rural Aid has just released its 2024/25 Impact Report, highlighting a dramatic increase in support for farming families facing unprecedented challenges across rural Australia. The report reveals that registration of farming families seeking assistance has doubled compared to last year, underscoring the escalating pressures of drought and financial strain.
The report, released on November 24, 2025, shows that 1,500 farming families received critical support, with 28 percent accessing multiple forms of assistance. The situation is dire, especially in South Australia and Victoria, where farmers are grappling with severe feed shortages and dwindling water supplies.
Throughout the year, Rural Aid has delivered nearly 10,000 hay bales to alleviate the emotional and financial burden on farmers struggling to keep their livestock alive. Additionally, 170 water tanks were distributed, providing nearly 12 million liters of safe drinking water to families during extreme drought conditions.
Financial relief has reached more than 530 farming families, enabling them to maintain operations and stay on their land. Volunteers have also stepped in, contributing over 5,500 hours across 35 farms, helping to reduce isolation and support essential tasks that would otherwise be unmanageable under stress.
Beyond immediate aid, Rural Aid has focused on enhancing the overall wellbeing of rural communities. Nearly 2,000 free counselling sessions were provided to families dealing with mental health challenges stemming from natural disasters and financial uncertainty. The Mustering Growth program has equipped nine schools with tools to foster mental resilience in children, ensuring the future wellbeing of the next generation.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters emphasized the organization’s comprehensive approach to support. “Rural Aid is there for farmers and their communities before, during, and after natural disasters,” he stated. “Our work goes beyond immediate relief; it’s about standing alongside our farmers to help them prepare, recover, and rebuild.”
This year, Rural Aid has been instrumental in supporting communities affected by the Western Queensland floods, the ongoing drought in South Australia, and flooding in New South Wales. Families received both immediate assistance and long-term recovery support, solidifying Rural Aid’s mission to stand with farmers throughout their journey.
With the ongoing commitment of partners and supporters, Rural Aid is poised to expand its reach and impact. The organization urges the public to contribute by participating in initiatives like Buy a Bale or Fill a Tank, ensuring that farming families receive the help they need during critical times. Donations can be made at www.buyabale.ruralaid.org.au.
As Rural Aid celebrates a decade of service, its commitment to supporting the resilience and wellbeing of rural Australians remains unwavering. The 2024/25 Impact Report is part of the Annual Report, available at www.ruralaid.org.au/annual-reports/2024-2025/.
The urgency of these developments highlights the critical need for support in rural Australia. Sharing this information can help raise awareness and mobilize immediate assistance for those in desperate need.
