Federated Farmers: Annual investment in rural health services is a must

Date: 19.06.2017

Government investment provides essential ongoing support

Federated Farmers say that regular investment from the government in rural health services provides essential ongoing support.

While addressing at Fieldays in Hamilton, Health Minister Jonathan Coleman and Primary Minister Industries Nathan Guy announced $500,000 for rural mental health services. This is the third consecutive year the government has provided an investment, showcasing the commitment of the country towards improving the health and well-being on rural people.

"The funding of $500,000 from both ministries is good news for our farming communities as often initiatives are started but seldom completed without further investment to ensure long-term sustainability," Katie Milne, Federated Farmers’ rural health and well-being spokesperson, says.

"There is no short-term fix when it comes to addressing the state of our health services in rural areas. The funding will ideally build on the various programmes that have been put together in recent years.

She added that the investment will provide the Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand(RHAANZ) and Rural Support Trusts with more capability and capacity to maximise their resources.

"It’s also encouraging to see that funding will be targeted at those younger rural workers who have been identified as being the most at risk of health and wellbeing issues," Katie says.

The rural industry is also looking forward to the Cabinet’s pledge to look a new mental health strategy.

Photo credit: Mint Images | Getty Images

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