Some farmers in northern New South Wales say they are glad for an extension on a workplace safety grant, but tough times and drought mean they still have other priorities.

WorkCover NSW has received 2,500 applications for a $2,000 safety rebate, which reimburses business that spend money on making farms safer.

Measures could include improving tractor safety, livestock restrictions, noise, dust and chemical reduction.

Farming remains one of the Australia’s most dangerous industries, with several hundred injuries recorded in New South Wales alone each year.

Jim Meckiff, Department of Primary Industries Industry Development Officer says he understands that many farmers having bigger concerns than safety management at the moment, but has stressed that there is little more important.

“I know people are feeding and chasing water but, when it comes to handling livestock in the future, you've got to make life a little easier for yourself,” Mr Meckiff said.

Arthur Dunn, a farmer at Watsons Creek north of Tamworth, told that ABC that it is difficult for some to find the funds in the first place.

“The average age of a farmer is up around 60-odd and I'm a bit passed that so it's just to make life easier,” said Mr Dunn.

“But the drawback is that you've got to be able to have the finance to buy whatever is being sold.”

Applications and other information on the rebates are available here.