In a new study, Skills Insight has identified significant industry support for an agricultural trade apprenticeship and recommended next steps to progress its development.

An agricultural trade apprenticeship has the potential to improve the industry’s capacity to highlight its diverse career pathways, and recruit and retain its future ready workforce.

A Skills Insight Jobs and Skills Council funded project, the study explored the feasibility of introducing a Certificate III-level trade qualification by consulting with industry stakeholders, training providers and relevant unions nationwide.

The study’s findings have been published in the Ag Trade Apprenticeship Feasibility Report, which outlines how to implement the apprenticeship and enabling arrangements that will need to be achieved, such as farm enterprise and training provider partnerships, and securing trade status across states and territories.

“Industry is telling us that it’s hard to attract and retain new entrants to the industry, even though careers in ag offer people the opportunity to become skilled in areas including agronomy, animal science, digital technologies, mechanical operations, supply chains, logistics and business management,” says Andrew Cameron, Executive Officer Industry Stewardship and Insights at Skills Insight.

“A new ag trade apprenticeship could offer a clearer career pathway for industry entrants and position them to have a significant impact within the industry and their communities.”

The study revealed significant support among industry participants for the development of an agricultural trade apprenticeship, but also highlighted concerns that need to be carefully considered regarding the potential impact a new apprenticeship could have on successful existing training pathways.

An agricultural trade pathway was recommended by the Agricultural Workforce Forum, which is convened by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. It was also recommended by the National Agricultural Labour Advisory Committee in the National Agriculture Workforce Strategy and the National Farmers’ Federation in their 2030 Roadmap.

Skills Insight remains actively engaged with interested stakeholders and is continuing to progress foundational work on the roadmap toward the potential establishment of an Ag Trade Apprenticeship.

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Visit the Ag Trade Apprenticeship Project webpage.   

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Skills Insight is a Jobs and Skills Council funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. For more information visit skillsinsight.com.au