Buninyong MP Michaela Settle is urging students, trainers and industry stakeholders to have their say on the future of agriculture training.
The Future of Agriculture Training in Victoria Review was launched in June to examine how the TAFE system can continue to meet the changing needs of Victoria’s growing agricultural industry in food growth hubs such as Moorabool.
The sector produces $15.9 billion worth of milk, fruit, vegetables, meat, fibre, eggs and grains each year in Victoria, supporting a $41.5 billion processing industry.
Ms Settle, who is leading the review, will deliver a final report to Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney in December.
“The experiences and views of students, trainers and industry are vital to this review,” she said.
“Now’s the time for anyone with an interest in the sector to have their say on the future of agriculture training in Victoria.”
The sector is especially important to regional Victoria and directly employs about 145,000 people, Ms Settle said, as well as supporting many more jobs across the supply chain in logistics, transport and advisory services.
Ms Tierney said the review will ensure agriculture training remains innovative and relevant and help understand the factors involved in student choice.
“This review will play a huge role in driving our agriculture training now and into the future – ensuring students have the tools they need for great careers and that the sector continues to get the support it needs,” she said.
The review is seeking feedback from industry, employers, students, parents, teachers and industry stakeholders, as well as TAFES, Learn Locals and other registered training organizations.
Feedback closes October 31, via engage.vic.gov.au/future-agriculture-training-review.
Benjamin Millar
