In 2018, Safe Work Australia engaged ThinkPlace Pty Ltd to undertake exploratory research to gain insights into the behavioural and cultural factors and barriers which impact on the work health and safety (WHS) practices of farmers. This report presents the approach and findings of the research, which involved in-depth ethnographic study of nine farms in southern New South Wales.

The small scale of the study and its focus on a specific sub-sector of the agriculture industry means the key insights outlined in this report may not necessarily be reflective of the broader industry. Nonetheless, the research adds to the body of WHS evidence in the industry and aligns with the findings of other research.

As the research uses an in-depth approach, it offers detailed information about farmer attitudes and behaviours; helping to increase our understanding of the barriers to reducing the high rates of injuries and fatalities in the agriculture industry. Rather than reporting on a stand-alone research project, this report is intended to inform and stimulate a broader conversation around WHS in the agriculture industry and initiate further evidence and policy work to improve WHS outcomes for the industry.