What happens to the farm? Australian farmers’ experiences after a serious farm injury

To investigate the experiences of farmers on returning to farming following a serious farm-related injury.

Methods: Patients who had sustained major trauma on a farm in Victoria, Australia, were identified using the Victorian State Trauma Registry (VSTR). In depth, semistructured phone interviews were conducted with 31 participants. Interview data were subjected to thematic analysis to identify important recurring themes. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved.

Results: Interviewees included self-employed full-time farmers, part-time farmers with a supplementary income, and agricultural employees. Analysis of participant responses connected to returning to farming after a serious farm-related injury identified five major interconnected themes: (i) effect on farm work, (ii) farming future, (iii) safety advocacy, (iv) changes to farming practices, and (v) financial ramifications.

Conclusion: Farmers who have sustained a serious farm-related injury are an important resource; their experiences and perspectives could assist in the development of educational and transitional support services from recovery back to working at a preinjury level, while ensuring farming production is sustainable during this period. Furthermore, farm safety programs can be enhanced by the engagement of farmers, such as participants in this study as advocates for improved farm safety practices.