NSW Farmers Association, Media Release, 27 May 2025
The state’s peak farm body is encouraging flood affected farmers to access the support services available to assist as recovery efforts begin across the Hunter and Mid North Coast.
NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said emergency fodder, veterinary support and a range of other services could be accessed from state government authorities by farmers dealing with the effects of the major flood event.
“We know farmers did everything they could to prepare for this disaster, but the reality is these floods have left colossal damage and devastation in their wake,” Mr Martin said.
“Dreadful connectivity has made it very difficult for many to stay in touch, but there is real help available and please don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you can.
“The NSW Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline is up and running to provide emergency assistance with livestock and animals, and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, as well as Local Land Services, are sharing what support is available via their social media channels.
“Local Evacuation Centres are also open to provide emergency accommodation, food and social support, and Recovery Centres have opened today as a one-stop shop for all flood resources and assistance in this time.”
Mr Martin said mental health services were also readily available if farmers or community members needed their support.
“This flooding has been tough on our communities, and we want you to know help is just a phone call or message away, if you can access that,” Mr Martin said.
“Lifeline is on 13 11 14 for crisis support any time, and we have a whole host of other mental health services on the NSW Farmers website that are here to help in this time.
“While many are only just beginning to assess the full extent of the damage, we know communities will need all the help we can get to recover from this – so stay safe, look out for each other, and together, we’ll get through this.”
A list of emergency contacts, health and wellbeing services and other useful links are available on the NSW Farmers website. In life-threatening situations, call 000. For immediate assistance with livestock and animals – including veterinary support, emergency fodder and carcase disposal – contact the NSW Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647.
Affected farmers should report any flood damage to their properties to NSW DPIRD via this survey to help get further support moving as quickly as possible. Assistance with completing the survey can be sought from your region’s Local Land Services office.
