Waikato farmers received $20.7 million for 4141 Accident Compensation Corporation claims in 2024.
Gerrard Vaughan
Numbers of accidents reported to ACC have remained consistent over the last five years but the cost has risen to $14.2 million.
Waikato farmers were responsible for around a sixth of the country’s $120 million worth of farming claims, and more than 6000 of the 23,000 occurring during the spring.
“Exhaustion, lack of sleep, the stresses of farming, isolation from friends and family, and being unable to take a break all add to the risks that a farmer or farm worker will have an accident,” said ACC workplace injury prevention manager Paula Wood.
“This is something we want farmers and farm workers to keep in mind, as they go through the busy spring calving season this year.”
Agriculture is among the top five industries for ACC injury claims alongside Manufacturing, Construction, Forestry and Fishing. These industries accounted for 38 percent of all workplace injuries in 2024.
One way to prevent injury is to simply stop and think, Wood said.
“Most injuries, in the first instance, are avoidable.
“When you’re tired and rundown it effects your decision-making, so take a break when you need it so you can go home safe at the end of every workday.”
New Zealand has some of the best farmers in the world, but we also have higher rates of workplace fatalities and injuries in agriculture, Wood said.
“Injuries can have a big impact on the individual, their whānau and friends, their community, and their workmates.
“We’re focused on reducing harm, injuries and fatalities and on driving positive, long-term change.
“Our partnerships are key to supporting this – we partner with Safer Farms and our $11 million investment into the Farm Without Harm programme, as well as Farm Strong, a wellbeing programme which encourages farmers to farm well by living well.
“There’s always going to be inherent risks in an industry that involves operating heavy machinery and handling livestock, but by working with our partners and farmers on how they can implement practical safety practices on their farm, we can help to mitigate those risks.”
Farmstrong shares practical tips from farmers for farmers so they can perform at their best, says Farmstrong programme director Gerrard Vaughan.
“Tips that keep you focused and calm, habits that help you to look after the most important asset in any business, which is the people that work in it,” says Vaughan.
There’s a strong connection between your wellbeing and your risk of accident and injury, Vaughan said.
“It’s important to look after your mind and body, so you can bring you’re A-game every day to the work you do on the farm.”
Over 10 years, Farmstrong has built up a collection of practical tools to help farmers improve their wellbeing. This includes a new ‘toolbox’ of mental fitness skills for farmers to maintain a clear headspace and perform under pressure.
“We encourage farmers to check these out, find out what works for you, and lock it in.”
Paula Wood
