A dedicated Agriculture Trade Apprenticeship will be a vital piece of the workforce shortage puzzle, according to the National Farmers’ Federation.
NFF President David Jochinke gave an update on the Ag Trade Apprenticeship at the official launch of National Skills Week this morning in Canberra.
“National Skills Week is a wonderful celebration of the hard-working employees who make our country go round,” Mr Jochinke said.
“I’m pleased to confirm the concept phase of the Ag Trade Apprenticeship has been ticked off, and that we are now moving to the product development phase.
“The NFF is committed to increasing the available ag workforce by 25 per cent by 2030, as per our 2030 Roadmap ambitions,” Mr Jochinke said.
A feasibility study found the Ag Trade Apprenticeship would increase professionalism, improve safety, and help alleviate skill shortages in the agriculture sector.
Apprentices will need to pass up to 40 units of a nationally recognised curriculum, before they can be signed off.
“This pathway, once implemented, will give employers a chance to access a new skilled workforce, ensuring attraction and retention in our field,” Mr Jochinke said.
“Agriculture should be an industry of choice for people looking to train under the structure of an apprenticeship.
“The Ag Trade Apprenticeship is an idea that the NFF has long championed, and was one of our key Federal Election asks.
“It’s such a worthwhile initiative, and I’m excited to watch the Ag Trade Apprenticeship come to life,” Mr Jochinke said.
The Ag Trade Apprenticeship is now in the product development phase.
Skills Insight is developing the apprenticeship program, alongside the NFF and its members.
For more background on the Ag Trade Apprenticeship, go to Skills Insight Feasibility Study.
