As drought continues to devastate South Australia, western Victoria and southwest New South Wales, Rural Aid is asking Australians to take action now to help farming families hold on to their livelihoods and hope this Christmas.

South Australia is facing record-low rainfall and a grain harvest for 2024-25 about 40 per cent below the five-year average. Livestock feed is running short, water is scarce, and many families are struggling to keep their farms and communities alive.

Rural Aid CEO, Mr John Warlters, said the call for help has never been more critical.

“Farmers shouldn’t have to choose between feeding their livestock and feeding themselves. Every donation helps deliver hay for livestock, clean drinking water, financial assistance, and on-farm counselling,” Mr Warlters said.

“Through Rural Aid, Australians can provide real, practical support that keeps farming families going, builds community strength, and restores hope.”

Rural Aid’s support is practical and life-changing;

• Hay deliveries for livestock

• Fresh, clean water for drinking and domestic use

• Financial assistance to cover urgent farm and household expenses

• Community development programs to keep rural

towns connected

• On-farm counselling from Rural Aid’s qualified mental health professionals

This Christmas, help farmers hold onto hope.

Rural Aid is calling on Australians to ‘Buy a Bay or Fill a Tank’ this Christmas to help deliver essential support farming families desperately need.

“Every dollar makes a real difference,” Mr Warlters said. “If you can, please give hope to the farming families who provide our food and fibre this Christmas. Help us deliver hay, water and counselling to those who need it most.”

To donate or learn more, visit www.buyabale.ruralaid.org.au.