New arrivals explore ag life
Since May last year, nearly 480 English-language students at TAFE Queensland’s Toowoomba Campus have been introduced to the world of agriculture through Growcom’s Agri-Connect program. This opportunity has given students a chance to sample a career in agriculture and see the diversity of employment opportunities available.
From the cohort, more than 135 students have toured local agribusinesses, from large horticultural operations like Koala Farms and Bare Essentials to seed producers, nurseries, equestrian facilities, and flower growers. Along the way, students have been able to strengthen their English immersion in real-world settings while learning how diverse Queensland’s agriculture sector truly is.
Many participants have recently arrived in Australia from countries such as Iraq and Syria, bringing with them languages including Kurdish-Kurmanji, Arabic, and Dinka. For these students, Agri-Connect has been more than a tour - it has been an introduction to the local community, an opportunity to engage directly with employers, and a pathway towards meaningful employment.
The benefits extend beyond the classroom. By meeting employers face-to-face and seeing a variety of workplaces, students are building confidence and understanding what skills and opportunities await.
For agribusinesses, Agri-Connect has been just as valuable, providing direct links to an eager new workforce and helping to address ongoing attraction and retention challenges.
Another cornerstone of the program is equipping businesses to welcome culturally and linguistically diverse staff members to their team.
Through Agri-Connect, businesses in Queensland can access Working with Diverse Teams training for up to 20 staff. Valued at $5,000, this training is fully subsidised under the program.
This training gives businesses practical tools to strengthen communication, respect cultural differences, and work more effectively together. It can be tailored to suit business operations and flexible delivery modes are available.
Liz Ford, Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network (QAWN) Officer for Southern Queensland said this training is invaluable in helping businesses attract a broader workforce and reinforces essential skills for any workplace.
“The training is all about creating environments where teams from a variety of backgrounds can work harmoniously together,” Liz said.
Only 10 of these packages are available, so get in touch with Liz today to find out more: www.growcom.com.au/qawn
Agri-Connect is delivered by Growcom with support from the Queensland Government (Jobs Queensland), and in partnership with TAFE Queensland’s Toowoomba Campus, Queensland Farmers’ Federation, and Multicultural Affairs Queensland.
