Driving digital development for women in ag
When it comes to growing Queensland’s agricultural workforce, women are stepping up – and a new initiative is giving them the skills and confidence to thrive.
The Women in Agriculture Project is supporting 100 women across the Lockyer Valley, Ipswich, Scenic Rim, and Somerset regions, to build digitally skilled careers in one of Queensland’s most vital industries.
The program supports women of all backgrounds ensuring inclusive pathways into agriculture.
Managed by experienced horticultural grower and ag training expert Janne Dipple, and hosted by Regional Development Australia, Ipswich and West Moreton, the project is supported by Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network (QAWN) Officers Liz Ford and Amy Nash of Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers (QFVG).
“Programs like this are essential to future-proofing the industry,” said Liz Ford.
“Digital skills, diversity and inclusive workplaces will be key to keeping Queensland agriculture competitive and sustainable,” she said.
Whether it’s work in the paddock, the pack shed, or the office, digital skills and capabilities are needed to drive agricultural operations and grow regional communities. The program supports training for all capability levels from entry-level to advanced.
For workers undertaking administrative duties or business management, the program provides training on digital literacy, Microsoft Office, Xero, internet, networking, and cyber security.
Participants also have the option to pursue the Farm Business Management skillset, which awards four vocational diploma units of competency.
In the shed and the field, training is available around AgTech, fundamentals of solar energy, working and safety in autonomous environments, drone use and maintenance, data collection, storage and management, logic controllers, geospatial technology, as well as sensors and monitoring equipment.
The program is flexible and responsive to employer needs, with suggestions and feedback from agribusinesses welcome to ensure training aligns with real world requirements.
Moving the dial on female representation in agriculture is vital, with women currently representing just 35 per cent of the industry’s workforce, and less than 23 per cent of technical and leadership roles.
The full impact of the Women in Ag Project will extend far beyond individual outcomes. Each successful graduate becomes a role model inspiring other women to see agriculture as a dynamic and rewarding career choice.
“The project is already delivering benefits beyond the farm gate,” said Amy Nash.
“We’re seeing women gain not just technical skills, but belief in themselves. That’s creating stronger communities and a more resilient regional workforce,” she said.
The Women in Ag Project will continue through 2026. To learn more about participating, hosting a placement, or to suggest an area for training, contact Janne Dipple at project@womeninagriculture.org.au or visit: womeninagriculture.org.au
A state initiative of Regional Development Australia, Ipswich & West Moreton in partnership with employment agencies, industry groups, agricultural employers and educators.
This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through tis Growing Workforce Participation Fund.
