Social, health and community services supporting Cardinia Shire

Farmer Support


Drought support information is available from Agriculture Victoria:
- Visit the website at agriculture.vic.gov.au/drought
- Call Agriculture Victoria on 136 186.

Visit Agriculture Victoria's Resource Directory for a complete list of services and support. 


Farm Advisory Service
Across the state any farmer can access technical information and advice to help manage the impacts of increasingly difficult seasonal conditions. These services will be delivered in partnership with a range of technical experts, including farm business advisors, livestock nutritionists, soil, water and pasture specialists and veterinarians. The program provides tailored advice through one-on-one consultations, webinars, workshops, field days, and online tools and information.

View info on Farm Advisory Service


Farm Business Resilience Program
The Farm Business Resilience program provides farmers with the opportunity to develop a plan for their farm business. Participants will improve their skills and knowledge to better prepare for and manage risk, adapt change and strengthen their farm business’s resilience. Register your interest in Farm Business Resilience program services by filling out the Expression of Interest form on the webpage listed below.

View info on Farm Business Resilience Program


Flying Doctor Wellbeing
Flying Doctor Wellbeing is a free mental health and wellbeing service for people in rural and remote Victorian communities. This service enables people to access sessions with a mental health clinician without needing to leave their local community, with appointments available face-to-face and via telehealth and telephone.

View info on Flying Doctor Wellbeing


Kangaroo Management
The Kangaroo Harvesting Program (KHP) provides an alternative to the existing Authority to Control Wildlife (ATCW) system for landholders wishing to control kangaroos on their property.

View info on Kangaroo Management


National Centre for Farmer Health
The Victorian Support Hub provides a range of mental health resources and information tailored for Victorian farmers and agricultural communities. This hub provides practical tools and guidance to help you prepare for and manage tough times, whether you’re navigating the demands of the farming calendar or facing extreme challenges.

View info on National Centre for Farmer Health


On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants
On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program aims to assist primary production businesses to implement on-farm infrastructure improvements and undertake essential business activities that improves drought management and preparedness.

View info on On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants


Regional Investment Coorperation
RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) is a national low-interest loan specialist funded by the Australian Government for farm businesses and farm-related small businesses. RIC currently has loan funding available until 30 June 2026.

View info on Regional Investment Coorperation


Rural Aid
Free, confidential counselling for Rural Aid-registered farmers and their families. Rural Aid also provides critical support to farmers affected by natural disaster through financial, water, fodder and volunteer assistance.

View info on Rural Aid


Rural Financial Counselling Service
Free, confidential and independent financial counselling, planning and support services for agricultural industries and small rural businesses.

View info on Rural Financial Counselling Service


Services Australia - Payments for rural Australians
Find out what support you can get if you live and work in rural, regional or remote Australia. Payments available include Farm Household Allowance, Assistance for isolated children, Remote area allowance.

View info on Services Australia - Payments for rural Australians