A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest $2.5 million over three years to support Farmsafe Australia and improve on-farm safety outcomes through the National Farm Safety Education Fund.

Labor candidate for New England, Laura Hughes, has welcomed the announcement, emphasising the importance of protecting workers across New England’s vital farming and mining sectors.

“Our farmers and producers are the lifeblood of New England — and like our hardworking mining communities, they deserve to know that their safety is a top priority,” Ms Hughes said.

Data released by AgriFutures Australia revealed a sharp and deeply concerning rise in on-farm fatalities and serious injuries, with 72 lives lost and 133 serious injuries recorded in 2024.

Recent SafeWork NSW findings confirm the risks, showing that one in every five worker deaths in NSW occurred in the agricultural sector, with quad bikes, animal handling, biosecurity hazards, tree work, and electrical work identified among the most dangerous tasks.

“This investment will support Farmsafe’s critical work — providing practical education, awareness, and resources to ensure our farming families can adopt safer work practices every single day,” Ms Hughes said.

The investment builds on existing annual Australian Government funding of $125,000 for Farmsafe’s Farm Safety Week campaign, extending efforts to reach even remote and very remote farming communities.

Under the leadership of Chair Felicity Richards, Farmsafe will continue delivering initiatives that support safer farms, aligning with the objectives of the National Farm Safety Education Fund.

Laura Hughes reaffirmed Labor’s commitment to rural and regional communities:
“The Labor Party was born in Queensland’s agricultural region, and we’ll always be the party you can trust to protect workers across all industries. Whether it’s on our farms, in our mines, or across our towns, Labor will fight for safe, strong communities in New England.”

Media Release: Labor candidate for New England, Laura Hughes,