AS Australia struggles with a national labour shortage, school leavers have helped keep the agriculture supply chain afloat through a gap year program.
The National Farmers Federation’s (NFF) AgCAREERSTART program saw more than 300 people in the first year apply to be placed with farmers across the country in multiple industries including grain, livestock, horticulture and dairy.
The hunt is on again to find the next generation of agriculture leaders to apply for the 12-month AgCAREERSTART program.
People aged 18 to 25 looking to start a career in the agriculture industry are encouraged to apply to live in an exciting regional location, earn a nationally recognised qualification and build life-long industry connections.
NFF CEO Tony Mahar said the program had seen school leavers learn new skills while assisting farmers to fill critical labour gaps.
“The impact of Australia’s current labour shortage is already being felt by farmers across the country, with an estimated $22m in crop losses having already been reported,” Mr Mahar said.
“The AgCAREERSTART program is a new way of building a skilled workforce to complement the in-demand skills farmers need and to help innovate industry practices.
“The partnerships forged in round one of AgCAREERSTART have been a huge success for farmers and students alike, with students learning about farm data capture and mapping, and operating state-of-the-art machinery.
“Many of the participants are moving out of home for the first time and learning essential life skills such as cooking, communication and problem-solving skills, as well as undertaking training that will help in their future careers such as obtaining a first aid certificate, truck licence or forklift ticket.”
Participants are employed under award wages on qualified farms, receive safety training and relocation assistance, and have the opportunity to join the farm after the completion of the program.
Applications for both farmer hosts and participants are now open and will close on October 18. Placements will commence in January 2023.
For more information, or to register interest visit agcareerstart.com.au.