Ready to support mice-impacted farmers

LEADING rural charity Rural Aid is encouraging farmers across South Australia to seek support as worsening mouse activity threatens crops, livestock feed, and farm infrastructure.

Recent forecasts from the CSIRO indicate high mice populations across southern South Australia, moderate levels in south-west Western Australia, and lower – but still present – activity across parts of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

The warning follows the devastating 2020–2021 mouse plague in eastern Australia, which caused an estimated $1 billion in damage.

Mice infestations can have severe impacts on farming operations, including consuming newly planted seeds, destroying emerging crops, contaminating livestock feed, and damaging machinery, vehicles, and household wiring.

With conditions expected to remain challenging, Rural Aid is reminding primary producers that support is available and encouraging those affected to get in touch early.

The emerging situation is deeply concerning. Mouse activity of this scale can escalate quickly and place enormous pressure on farming families.

We’ve seen firsthand the destruction these plagues can cause. We want farmers to know they’re not alone – support is available, and we encourage anyone impacted to reach out as soon as possible.
JOHN WARLTERS
Chief executive officer
Rural Aid