In an effort to prepare the next generation of agricultural professionals to meet the evolving demands of modern agriculture, Federation TAFE and Longerenong College have secured a significant funding of up to $1.87 million. This funding, announced by Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney, is part of the State Government’s $15 million Agriculture TAFE and Training Fund (ATTF) for Victorian TAFEs and learning providers. The aim is to support the modernisation of training programs, curriculum, and equipment while embracing emerging technologies and incorporating Aboriginal agricultural knowledge and practices.
REVITALISING AGRICULTURAL TRAINING:
Federation TAFE and Longerenong College, known for providing comprehensive agriculture training in the Wimmera, Grampians, and Central Highlands regions, are joining forces to revamp and enhance their current training resources for the Certificate II, III, and IV of Agriculture programs. This initiative will ensure that students receive a fresh and modernised curriculum, empowering them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the agricultural industry.
ONLINE TRAINING AND PATHWAY DEVELOPMENT:
Recognising the need for flexible learning pathways, the institutions will design training materials for online delivery, allowing students to access education from anywhere. Additionally, a comprehensive pathway will be created for students completing Federation TAFE’s Certificate III and IV in Agriculture programs to seamlessly transition into Longerenong College’s esteemed Diploma of Applied Agronomy and Advanced Diploma of Agribusiness Management programs. This integration will enable students to pursue higher levels of education and specialisation in the field of agriculture.
ADDRESSING SKILLS SHORTAGES AND SUPPORTING INDUSTRY GROWTH:
The Victorian Skills Authority estimates that by 2025, nearly 3,000 agricultural workers will be needed, particularly in the broadacre and intensive farming areas of the regions served by Federation TAFE and Longerenong College. The redevelopment of qualifications and the injection of funding are expected to attract more students to the agricultural sector, address skills shortages, and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the local agriculture industry.
PARTNERSHIP BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES:
Avril Hogan, General Manager for Longerenong College, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the opportunities for education accessibility through online training resources. This development opens doors for individuals who wish to retrain but are unable to commit to full-time study. Furthermore, the collaboration between Longerenong College and Federation TAFE will facilitate an articulation pathway, ensuring a smooth transition for students who aspire to pursue diploma qualifications at Longerenong College after completing their studies at Federation TAFE.
COMMITMENT TO REGIONAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT:
Federation TAFE Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Mr. Liam Sloan, emphasised their commitment to addressing skills shortages in regional areas, particularly in priority sectors like agriculture. This partnership will enable students from both institutions to benefit from a modernised curriculum and improved learning resources, resulting in enhanced outcomes for students and communities in the regions where they operate.
GOVERNMENT’S SUPPORT FOR AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION:
The Agriculture TAFE and Training Fund, part of the Labor Government’s $50 million Agricultural College Modernisation Program, plays a crucial role in encouraging more Victorians to pursue careers in agriculture. Minister Gayle Tierney acknowledged the significance of equipping future farmers with the tools and skills necessary to navigate the evolving agricultural landscape.
The collaboration between Federation TAFE and Longerenong College, fuelled by a $1.87 million investment, marks a significant step toward modernising agricultural training in Victoria. By updating curriculum, embracing emerging technologies, and providing online learning opportunities, the institutions aim to meet the growing demand for skilled agricultural professionals. With a comprehensive pathway established, students can progress to higher levels of education, unlocking more opportunities in the agriculture industry. This partnership not only addresses skills shortages but also supports the growth and prosperity of the local agricultural community, ensuring a sustainable future for Victorian agriculture.