UPDATE: A vital program enabling young Australians to jumpstart careers in agriculture is facing imminent closure, despite generating a staggering $5.56 return for every dollar invested. The AgCAREERSTART initiative, which has supported hundreds of youth, is now at risk as funding runs dry.
The program, launched in 2022 and managed by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), provides a paid, hands-on experience on farms across Australia, encouraging young people aged 18 to 25 to explore agricultural careers. Participants like Ivy Considine, 18, from Ulladulla, have benefitted immensely, attending training sessions and conferences in Western Australia, Victoria, and preparing for an event in Queensland.
“I always wanted to pursue a career in agriculture,” said Considine. “Without AgCAREERSTART, I wouldn’t have had these opportunities.” Her journey reflects the program’s success, which has seen over 200 participants from diverse backgrounds. Notably, the program has included 58% female participants and 10% who identify as having a disability.
As the pilot phase nears its end, officials are calling for immediate support from the agricultural industry to sustain the program. Tim Bradley, AgCAREERSTART project manager, emphasized the program’s proven success, stating, “The future workforce starts with practical experience and supported pathways.”
Concerns are mounting among employers like Daniel Kahl, a cotton and beef farmer, who stated, “If the government can’t see value in something like this, I can’t see what they can see value in.” Kahl has witnessed first-hand how the program cultivates future leaders in agriculture, describing it as a breeding ground for the next generation of industry professionals.
The NFF is urging industry leaders, agribusinesses, and government entities to invest in the program’s next phase. As it stands, the NSW government has indicated no plans for additional funding, with Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Minister Steve Whan highlighting existing support programs but acknowledging the critical need for AgCAREERSTART.
Participants like Tash Moore, who moved from Naracoorte to Colleambally, and Finn Stanley, from Bruny Island, have experienced transformative journeys through the program, gaining skills and confidence to pursue their agricultural aspirations. Moore shared, “This was the perfect way to kick-start my career.”
With the pilot phase concluding, the urgency for action is palpable. Employers and participants alike stress the importance of the program in filling the agricultural workforce gap and providing essential training.
Heather Whigham-Reid, a farmer from The Marra, expressed her support for continued funding, emphasizing the program’s role in bridging the skills gap in agriculture. “This program really works; it’s got the data to show it,” she said.
As discussions unfold, the future of the AgCAREERSTART program hangs in the balance. Stakeholders are encouraged to act swiftly to ensure that young Australians can continue to access these critical pathways into agricultural careers.
For more details on how to support AgCAREERSTART, visit nff.org.au/partner-with-us-agcareerstart.
