At the beginning of 2023, Planfarm Academy was pleased to offer its services to the young people going through the AgCAREERSTART program. Initially, we focused on ensuring that these participants were well prepared for their 12 months ahead in the agricultural industry with their host farms. Today, we are pleased to highlight the fantastic opportunity AgCAREERSTART offers farmers to host a young person at the beginning of their agricultural career. I recently met with Chloe Smart, the Training and Career Development Coordinator for AgCAREERSTART, to discuss what they do and how to get involved.
Let’s start with the facts about AgCAREERSTART:
- Commenced in 2022 to connect young people to a career in agriculture and also to develop a new workforce for Australian Producers.
- AgCAREERSTART is Commonwealth funded through Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and delivered by National Farmers Federation.
- AgCAREERSTART is seeking Primary Producers who are willing to mentor and progress the next generation in Agriculture.
- In 2025 AgCAREERSTART will be running its 4th intake.
- Please see the website for more information.
Here’s why AgCAREERSTART stands out:
- Bridging the Gap: We connect enthusiastic 17-25 year-olds with full-time roles, providing a fresh workforce for Primary Producers.
- Nationwide Reach: Our program spans all States and Territories, catering to all Primary Production industries.
- Proven Success: Over three years, we’ve placed 180 young people on farms, with an impressive 84% retention rate in agriculture.
- Empowering Participants: Each participant receives a $4500 Training and Engagement Bursary to enhance their skills.
- Supporting Hosts: Host Farmers benefit from a $2000 grant. (conditions apply)
Is it just for young people, is there an age limit?
The young people applying must be between 17-25, with most applicants recent school leavers. But also many coming from family farms, rural backgrounds, trades and university.
What is the service available for Broadacre Farmers or Horticulture Growers?
- AgCAREERSTART recruit, screen and match Host Farmers with suitable candidate(s) alleviating recruitment stresses.
- AgCAREERSTART offer a $4500 Training and Engagement Bursary to each Participant completing the AgCAREERSTART program. (eg conduct courses like Planfarm and attend industry conferences)
- We offer our Host Farmers 24/7 support from the AGCAREERSTART team and can offer resources if needed in Human Resources, Mental Health etc
- Offer all Host Farmers and Participants access to 8 Free Sessions with TIACS the Mental Health counselling service.
What is expected from the Host Farmer -what do they have to provide?
Its free to apply to AgCAREERSTART.
We’re looking for Host Farmers who can provide:
- A full-time paid role for 10-12 months in 2025, at or above award rates.
- A willingness to mentor and teach their Participant(s).
- A safe and inclusive environment.
- Accommodation is not required to be provided (however we encourage Farmers to help Participant source accommodation if not provided).
How do you apply?
Host Farmer Applications OPEN NOW visit the website and complete the application form. https://agcareerstart.com.au/
Applications close September 29th 2024.
Information Webinar for Host Farmers July 31st at 7pm (NSW time)– register here https://bit.ly/3VGyGca.
What are some examples of placements in Western Australia in 2024 and what was their focus?
- Hyden – Grains
- Salmon Gums – Grains and sheep
- Dinninup – Sheep
- Margaret River – Viticulture
- Mingenew – Grains
- Port Headland – Cattle
- Coorow – Grain
If a student wants to do it and they have a farmer in mind can they nominate? Can a child of the family do it on the family farm?
Whilst we encourage all to apply, preferences of placements will be given to applicants (Participant or Host Farmer) who do not have a farm role or employees already secured for 2025
Planfarm Academy – where does this fit in the picture?
In 2023 and 2024 multiple AgCAREERSTART Participants (both from WA and interstate) have completed the Planfarm Academy Agronomy of Farming – Short Course.
Kaitlin a 2023 Participant had this to say after completing the course.
“I found the online agronomy course very useful, it’s great to expand my knowledge and have a basic understanding of agronomy. If people are thinking about studying agronomy in the future this course would be great for them as they would have the basic understanding of it and would know what they are heading into, I wish I had this when I chose my major. The videos are short and precise which I like and it’s great that we can do it at our own time. Overall, I have enjoyed the course and loved learning new things”.
The second Planfarm Academy ‘live’ round for 2024 is now taking registrations!
Get ready to improve your knowledge in Farm Business and Agronomy with the Planfarm Academy Spring Series! Our online courses are set to kick off, featuring live webinars where you can engage with our expert panel from the Planfarm team.
Both Whole and Short Courses Available:
Start Date: Monday, 19th August
Early Access: Gain instant access to course content upon sign-up, allowing you to start learning at your own pace right away.
Online Discussion Sessions: Participate in our weekly live webinars where you can pose your questions directly to our panels. Session dates: Friday, 23rd August, 30th August, 6th September and a final extended session on Friday, 13th September.
Course Duration: The courses are designed as a four-week sprint, requiring approximately 2 to 3 hours per week. Listen to content while driving or working to make the most of your time.
Cost: $1450 (+ GST) for the Whole courses. Your entire farm business team can join for this single fee! Corporates and industry participants can also benefit from our group discounts. $800 (+GST) for the Short courses – this includes joining in the interactive Online Discussion Sessions!
Ideal for Interstate Participants: Take advantage of this opportunity to upskill in farm business and agronomy without the need to travel. Our courses are fully accessible online, making learning convenient for everyone.
Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your expertise and contribute to the success of your farm business.
Enrol now to secure your spot in the Planfarm Academy Spring Series!
To register or learn more, visit https://planfarm.com.au/about-planfarm-academy/
