Growing the workforce is a big focus for the horticulture industry
Attracting workers with the necessary skillsets is a key priority in the horticulture sector
From pickers and packers to quality assurance, marketing, sales, engineering, agronomy, research and much more, there are plenty of career opportunities.
To meet the industry’s growing need for a range of workers and skill-sets, it is increasingly important to educate and encourage students to make the most of the many opportunities available.
To achieve this, it is crucial that schools, training organisations and growers are equipped with the necessary tools and resources.
AUSVEG has prepared and compiled a range or resources for educators, students and growers below.
AUSVEG Unpacking the Vegetable Industry video series
A video series telling the story of the vegetable industry. The AUSVEG Unpacking the Vegetable Industry video series looks to celebrate what the industry is really like and to tell our story and answer some of the questions the public has for the industry. In this series AUSVEG has travelled around Australia and interviewed people working in the vegetable industry to understand their experiences and perspectives.
VEG Education Vocational Horticulture Program
This program has been developed on farm by Catherine Velisha, an industry leader and long-time advocate for horticulture education for school aged students. The program is tailored for senior students looking to gain an understanding of the horticulture industry by combining classroom and hands on learning in industry. Students will learn practical skills and training so they can pursue an exciting career in horticulture.
Grow Your Career videos
These videos explore some of the obscure but vital roles in the industry and show the daily tasks, responsibilities, and pathways of current employees on Australian farms – many who have been able to transfer key skills from seemingly unrelated courses and past occupations to start new and successful careers in horticulture.
AgCAREER START
Discover an exciting and meaningful career in agriculture through this National Farmers Federation and Australian Government gap year program. The program matches you with a farmer in an industry of your choice and allows you to gain hands on experience whilst completing a VET course.
Primezone
The Primezone site offers teachers with single-point access to a range of primary industries education resources. It is an initiative of the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia.
The Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA) is a tripartite not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, formed through the collaboration of the Australian Government, primary industries organisations and the education sector. It has government, industry, and education membership. PIEFA’s vision is for an Australian community that understands and values its primary industries.
VegEducation
Born out of Victoria’s Velisha Farm by CEO Catherine Velisha, VEG Education looks to build a connection between kids and horticulture. Catherine is passionate about education and building a long-term skilled and engaged horticulture workforce. Through the VEG Education program students have the opportunity to visit Velisha Farms in person or virtually to see how their veggies get to their plate! This program can be tailored for primary and secondary students.
Further training for employees
Training.gov.au
Use the Training.gov.au website to search for courses and certificates to further your employees’ skills.
VEG Education – Victoria
Born out of Victoria’s Velisha Farm by CEO Catherine Velisha, VEG Education offers a range of programs to enhance the skills and training on farm.
VEG Start
For people entering the industry or for existing workers to refresh their knowledge.
VEG Safe
This program helps businesses comply with legislation and ensure workers are safe.VEG Smart
Helps businesses and leaders to enhance their skills through a range of themed sessions.