AgSkilled will be expanded to the livestock sector as part of the NSW Government‘s investment in upskilling and strengthening the agricultural workforce.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole stated that since its inception, AgSkilled has concentrated on plant-based businesses such as crops, cotton, viticulture, and horticulture, delivering over $9.6 million in training across NSW since 2020.
“Almost 5,400 training places have been delivered through AgSkilled since mid-2020, and this expansion to the livestock sector will turbocharge the take-up of skills and training for the people driving a $8 billion dollar industry,” Deputy Premier Tool said.
According to Deputy Premier Toole, the agriculture skills program will assist producers in increasing productivity, profitability and competitiveness, and creating a highly skilled workforce that will drive the sector and expand the economy for future generations – whether you’re serving steaks or producing world-class fibre.
As part of the expanded program, producers of beef cattle, dairy, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, honeybees, and other livestock can receive training in pest and disease control and animal management services used in commercial agriculture (food and fibre) production.
Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said with a record $3.1 billion skills budget, the State Government is providing more options for free training than ever before.
“A single, streamlined training and workforce development program for the entire agricultural sector will generate more opportunities for people to get the skills they need for the jobs they want,” Minister Henskens stated.
Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the program is intended to provide industry-relevant training using new and emerging technologies, emphasising increasing efficiency and production.
“Our State’s agriculture sector is already extremely dynamic and responsive. This program will help us take it to the next level by giving more people the opportunity to gain industry-specific skills,” Minister Saunders stated.
Minister Saunders added that it contributes to addressing industry workforce shortages, providing more people with the skills needed to achieve meaningful employment, and providing career development possibilities for those already working in the business.
Participants in AgSkilled must be at least 15 years old, no longer in school, living or working in NSW, and have the backing of a current or prospective employer.
According to Australian Livestock and Property Agents CEO Peter Baldwin, it’s fantastic that the NSW Government is encouraging more people to work in a growing business.
“A career in the livestock industry can be incredibly dynamic and rewarding, and it’s great to see programs like these increasing pathways for more people to enter the workforce,” Baldwin added.
Angus Australia CEO Scott Wright said the program would play a significant role in advancing the livestock industry in NSW.
“The livestock sector has seen a remarkable recovery after some really tough times with drought and flood, and continues to thrive. Encouraging new people into our workforce will help ensure longevity of the industry well into the future,” Wright stated.
