AgriFutures Australia has launched a new initiative aimed at addressing significant labour and skills shortages within Australia’s agricultural sector. This project, known as the Strategic Analysis of Regional Workforce Pressures in Australian Agriculture, will focus on five key agricultural regions: the Riverina, Wide Bay, South East Perth, Murray-Darling, and Swan Hill and Toowoomba Darling Downs.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), seeks to enhance understanding of workforce dynamics in these areas. It will utilize surveys and stakeholder interviews to gather insights that will be critical in shaping future strategies. The project aims to unite government and industry stakeholders to discuss findings and build a comprehensive understanding of workforce challenges.
Simon Vincent, General Manager of Rural Futures at AgriFutures Australia, emphasized the importance of community involvement in this initiative. “Every region has its own story, its own strengths and challenges,” he stated, highlighting the unique contexts of each area.
Agriculture remains a vital sector in Australia, contributing billions to the national economy and presenting diverse career opportunities. Despite its innovations, the sector faces persistent labour and skills shortages, which have strained production systems in various regions. Vincent remarked, “We want to make sure every part of the workforce ecosystem, from training providers to employers and councils, is part of the study.”
The initiative invites community members, workers, employers, and organizations from the five targeted regions to participate in upcoming surveys and consultation sessions. Their feedback will play a crucial role in developing a more robust and resilient agricultural workforce for the future. Surveys will remain open for six weeks, with a final report expected to be released in mid-2026.
Community members interested in contributing to this important research can complete the survey through the designated platform. This initiative represents a proactive step towards addressing workforce challenges and ensuring sustainable growth within Australia’s agricultural landscape.
