The National Centre for Farmer Health is a partnership between Deakin University and Western District Health Service, dedicated to enhancing the health, wellbeing and safety of farming communities.
Our work combines applied research with key service areas: professional training and education, online health resources, AgriSafe clinics and Sustainable Farm Families programs.
From injury prevention to mental health, our research drives tangible health improvements and shapes industry practices, creating healthier futures for farmers in Australia and and around the world.
We focus on improving farming communities’ health, safety and wellbeing through research in the following areas.
We address chronic conditions, mental health challenges and suicide prevention in rural farming communities.
We reduce injuries and fatalities by researching safety risks and practices in agricultural workplaces.
We study the long-term health effects of pesticide exposure and agricultural chemicals to reduce risks.
We build resilience through research on sustainable practices, climate adaptation, and long-term community health.
We’re committed to enhancing the lives of those in the farming industry. Learn how you can contribute to making a real impact through collaboration and innovation.
The Centre has been a leader in farmer mental health, wellbeing and safety for over 15 years, often in partnership with community, industry and other stakeholders. We are committed to maximising our efforts to make a difference to farmers’ lives across Australia.
Dr Alison Kennedy
Director of the National Centre for Farmer Health
Our researchers bring expertise in behavioural science, healthcare, agriculture and education to create innovative solutions for the unique challenges faced by farmers.
Dr Alison Kennedy is the director and associate professor at the National Centre for Farmer Health. A behavioural scientist with nearly 20 years of experience in rural Victoria, Alison focuses on farmer mental health and suicide prevention. She leads projects, including digital interventions and peer support models, and has provided expert testimony before the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.
Dr Susan Brumby is an affiliate professor at Deakin’s School of Medicine and the founding director of the National Centre for Farmer Health. With a strong agricultural background, Sue is dedicated to improving farmer health through innovative research and service delivery. She is a chief investigator on national and international research grants.
Our research creates practical solutions to improve health, safety and wellbeing in farming communities, influencing policies, practices, and rural health services.
This project addresses healthcare barriers faced by LGBTIQA+ young people in rural communities. Using a systems-thinking approach, we co-design inclusive, adaptable primary healthcare models for rural regions.
The mental health for agriculture (MH4Ag) project co-designs a peer-supported framework to deliver psychological therapy and mental health support to farmers in rural areas, addressing the mental health risks faced by farming communities.
Deakin University and Western District Health Service collaborate with a diverse network of academic, healthcare and industry partners to tackle health and safety challenges faced by farmers.
These partnerships enable us to deliver impactful, evidence-based programs that improve the lives of farmers and their families.
Have questions or want to learn more about our research?
Phone: (03) 5551 8533
Email the team
