Connecting young talent with agriculture opportunities

Tasmanian farmers and young Australians looking to start a career in agriculture have a golden opportunity through the AgCAREERSTART program, now accepting applications for its 2025 intake. Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and delivered by the National Farmers Federation, this innovative gap-year program is designed to link enthusiastic young Australians, aged 17-25, with farmers eager to offer hands-on work experience on their properties.

Since its inception, the program has successfully placed 180 young Australians on farms across the country. Impressively, 43% of participants have stayed on their farms for a second year, and 84% have remained in the agriculture sector, underscoring the program’s effectiveness in fostering long-term interest and engagement in farming careers. 

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The program’s structure includes a 10-12 month placement, during which participants are paid full-time wages aligned with industry awards, along with a $4,500 bursary to support further training and professional development, such as earning certificates or attending agricultural events​.

AgCAREERSTART is open to participants from all skill levels and backgrounds, making it an accessible entry point into the agricultural industry. For many, it serves as a foot in the door, allowing them to explore the diverse roles available on a farm from working with livestock and crops to learning about cutting-edge agricultural technologies. Throughout the program, participants benefit from on-the-job learning, as well as the guidance and mentorship provided by their host farmers, helping them build a solid foundation for their agricultural careers.

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Tasmanian farmers are encouraged to take part as host employers, offering young workers meaningful roles while supporting the industry’s future. To be eligible as hosts, farmers need to provide a safe and supportive environment, as well as full-time employment for the program duration. Hosts are also expected to offer flexibility for participants to undertake additional training and industry engagement. In return, host farms receive a $2,000 Farm Safety Incentive to support safe workplace practices.

Applications for both host producers and participants are open until September 29, 2024, with placements starting between January and March 2025. Farmers and prospective participants alike can find more information and apply via the AgCAREERSTART website at AgCAREERSTART.com.au.

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For farmers, this is an ideal opportunity to bring new talent onto their farms while giving back to the next generation of agricultural professionals. For young Australians, the program offers not just a job, but a pathway to a rewarding and dynamic career in agriculture.