Free agriculture training for Scenic Rim locals

For locals looking to enter the agricultural industry, or those who are current workers within the sector and wanting to upskill, Council has the perfect ticket to kickstart or expand upon a career in agriculture.

Expressions of interest are now open for the Scenic Rim Agriculture Skills Development Program, giving locals access to free training and development.

Mayor Greg Christensen said the program will deliver training programs to new and existing workers in the agricultural industry thanks to the Australian Government's commitment of $75,000 through the Drought Communities Program (DCP) Extension.

“We know that a lot of workers in the agriculture sector have gained a range of practical skills throughout their career, however may not have the formal qualifications recognising their extensive skillset,” he said.

“This program will help formalise local employees’ qualifications by recognising prior learning and giving them support to complete their tickets or certification.

“Not only will the program assist workers in developing their career path, but it will also make them more employable should they need to find extra or alternative employment within the sector and beyond due to drought and other agricultural impacts.

“Agriculture is our region’s biggest industry, supporting more than 2,000 local jobs and contributing more than $260 million to Gross Regional Product, so this investment to upskill our workforce will help further strengthen our economy.

“Training programs on offer are as diverse as operation of a forklift, driving a grader or dozer, working with agricultural chemicals, horticulture, or building and construction, so there’s something for everyone.”

Federal Member for Wright, Scott Buchholz advocated for the extension of the Australian Governments Drought Communities Programme (DCP) to fund local initiatives to support the drought hit agricultural economy.

“The cash injection into the Scenic Rim is delivering small scale projects and initiatives that boost the economy, improve community wellbeing and provide community infrastructure for the long term,” he said.

“The drought will come to an end; we have had some rain and we need more but it will end.

“As a Federal Government, we’re supporting our rural communities and farmers through the drought and the benefits of programs such as the Scenic Rim Agriculture Skills Development Program are long-lasting, it will develop a stronger workforce for our agriculture and horticulture sectors for the future.”

General Manager at DGT Employment and Training, Kim Watson, said they’re excited to be involved in such an important program.

“The Agricultural Skills Development Program is a great local initiative to provide assurance to workers within the agriculture sector in these times of uncertainty,” she said.

“Training that can provide licences and qualifications will enable workers to gain alternative employment options or further enhance their skills and ability to work within the agriculture sector delivering career progression opportunities.”

“The program will be delivered from now until February 2022, with the duration of individual training dependent on the type of course and certification undertaken,” Cr Christensen said.

“There are limited spaces available in the program, so I want to see all locals currently in or looking to enter the agricultural industry taking advantage of this opportunity and expressing their interest today.”

If you would like to know more about the Scenic Rim Agriculture Skills Development Program, contact DGT Employment and Training by emailing amanda.anderson@dgt.org.au.