The Nationals Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, is encouraging farmers across the Mildura electorate to use National Farm Safety Week as a time to reflect, learn and commit to safer practices.
Running from 20–26 July, this year’s campaign, “Second Chances – Who Knows How Many You’ll Get?”, focuses on the everyday close calls that happen on Australian farms. “We might call them lucky breaks, but those close calls are really chances to stop, think, and do better next time.
“Too often, we brush off near misses as part of the job, but these moments are lessons, and they can be the difference between life and death.”
Ms Benham said farming in the Mildura electorate comes with unique pressures, particularly as drought conditions continue to challenge local producers.
“Our farmers are doing it tough. They’re tired, stretched thin, and carrying a huge load. That pressure can lead to shortcuts or oversights, and that’s where accidents happen,” she said.
“Fatigue, routine, and split focus can turn everyday tasks into real dangers. Add in the stress of drought and the emotional toll it takes, and safety becomes even more critical.”
Ms Benham said this year’s campaign also shines a light on the invisible risks, like mental health, which can have just as much impact as physical hazards.
“Some of the most dangerous near misses on farms aren’t with machinery, they’re the silent struggles happening behind closed doors. We have to treat mental health as part of farm safety.”
“Our farmers are the backbone of our communities. They work hard in difficult conditions. The least we can do is make sure they’re supported to come home safe every single day.”
For more information on Farm Safety Week, visit www.farmsafe.org.au.
