New Australians looking to secure employment in the horticulture and wider agriculture sector will benefit from a new project commencing in September facilitating training and industry experience to support long-term employment.

Peak representative body for Queensland horticulture, Growcom through the Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network (QAWN) will partner with Toowoomba-based social enterprise, The Mulberry Project and registered training provider, DGT Employment & Training to deliver the Skilling Queenslanders for Work, Community Work Skills program, Agricultural Employment for New Australian’s project.

Growcom Workforce Development Manager and Agriculture Workforce Officer for Southern Queensland, Karen George said the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative focuses on developing an individual’s skills, supporting them to begin a learning pathway and providing direct assistance to those Queenslanders that need extra support to enter and stay in the workforce.

“Through the Agricultural Employment for New Australian’s project Growcom, The Mulberry Project and DGT Employment & Training will assist new Australians to gain nationally recognised skills and vocational qualifications, Certificate II in Horticulture and assist participants to apply for and secure long-term employment in the agricultural sector,” Ms George said.

“The project is a win-win for employees and employers – helping refugees and migrants to use previous skills and experience in agriculture to build careers in agriculture now, while building a more sustainable workforce for growers.”

An information session has been planned for potential participants to learn more about how they will receive training and support through the project.

“Topics to be covered at the information session include what to expect when participating in the program, such as Certificate II in Horticulture, understanding Fair and Safe Work legislation, what learning support is available and farm visits and introductions to employers and jobs in the agriculture sector,” Ms George said.

“No prior bookings are necessary. Attendees will be invited to register their interest to participate in the project at the information session.”

Information Session
Date: Friday 16 August 2019
Time: 10am – 12pm
Location: Seminar Room, Level 3 Toowoomba City Library

This Skilling Queenslanders for Work project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.