RURAL Aid will boost its mental health support services in Western Australia, with funding secured for three new counsellors to be based across six regions.

The funding is part of the federal government’s community wellbeing program, a $1.5 million initiative under the $140m sheep industry transition assistance package.

The program, administrated by the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, aims to foster community wellbeing and resilience in regions impacted by the planned phase-out of live sheep exports by sea.

These new counselling roles will significantly expand Rural Aid’s presence in WA and are in addition to the organisation’s existing WA-based counsellor.

“This funding allows us to deliver more tailored, on-the-ground support to farming families in WA,” Rural Aid chief executive officer John Warlters said.

“Rural Aid counsellors are part of the communities they serve. They don’t just provide traditional counselling support – they meet farmers at the farm gate, at the local sale yards, field days and community events. They are visible, approachable and embedded in the rural way of life.”

Rural Aid counsellors provide free, confidential mental health support, and are trained to assist with a wide range of challenges  from anxiety and depression to grief, relationship breakdowns and the stress of managing a farm business.

They are also proactive in the community by collaborating with local stakeholders and being present at key industry and social events. This grassroots approach ensures support is accessible, familiar and relevant, and covers the entire suite of Rural Aid services and support available to farmers and rural communities.

“Farmers are often reluctant to ask for help. That’s why it’s so important that our counsellors are visible in the regions, they build trust by being part of everyday rural life,” Mr Warlters said.

This funding is a critical investment in the future of rural Western Australia, ensuring communities can access the emotional support they need through times of uncertainty and change.

Rural Aid is currently recruiting for the new counsellor roles in WA and qualified mental health professionals with a passion for rural communities are encouraged to apply by emailing hr@ruralaid.org.au

WA farmers and rural community members can register for free counselling support by visiting this website or calling 1300 175 594.