University of Canberra research also found farmers contemplating leaving their  roles report “poorer well-being” compared to those who have no immediate thoughts of retirement or changing careers.

The university’s regional wellbeing study of 3000-plus farmers in 2014 found the 20,000 slump in producer numbers in the five years to 2011 – down to about 157,000 – reflected a clear trend set in recent decades which was not slowing as productivity efficiency measures and farm sizes increased or farm income prospects looked up.

About 27 per cent of those interviewed said they were likely or very likely to leave the sector, or at least stop actively working their own farms, by 2020. 

The main report was published late last year with findings continuing to be analysed.

The report showed 49 per cent were determined to stay as farmers, describing their exit as “very unlikely”.

Producers in the wine grape, fruit, vegetable and rice industries were among those most likely to be leaving, while intensive livestock producers were most keen to stay. 

Those with mixed sheep-wheat-beef enterprises and cotton growers also tended to be less likely to think of quitting. 

Getting old was by far the most common reason for departure intentions (75 per cent), but interestingly only a third of farmers leaving their land actually retired, said rural health and social issues Phd student, Dominic Peel.

Interviews with about 625 farmers who had left their farms in the previous five years, found almost half had diverted to jobs paying regular salaries or wages, often within the agribusiness sector in roles ranging widely from agronomy consulting to food processing.

Another 10 per cent started or bought their own non-farm businesses, including post offices, or they were studying to upgrade their skills or gain new qualifications. 

Mr Peel, who interviewed many ex-farmers for the study, said 83 per cent felt their new circumstances were a positive development and had no regrets. 

Associate professor with the university’s health research institute, Jacki Schirmer, said given thousands of farmers quit their farms annually the study highlighted a need for more useful support for those contemplating moving.

She said farmers should be urged to look at business-focused transitioning ideas at least when aged in their 50s.

Farm succession was more expensive and complicated than a generation ago and likely to impact on a couple’s mental wellbeing for long periods if not considered properly, she said.