Skill up workers to support agriculture

Tasmanian Labor
  • Government must do more to reskill displaced workers
  • Training needs to deliver job ready graduates
  • Ag Kickstarter would get people working on the land
  • Tasmanian Labor has called on the state government to adopt Labor’s policy and provide free TAFE training in the agricultural sector as part of the response to COVID-19.

    Shadow Minister for Primary Industry Shane Broad said the limited TAFE support offered by government could go much further by supporting Labor’s Ag Kickstarter program which was designed with industry input to fill an identified skills gap.

    “With more than 20,000 Tasmanians losing their jobs since mid-March due to COVID-19 and visa workers locked out of Australia, it makes good sense to train or reskill people so we can match up displaced workers with agricultural employers crying out for staff.

    “The Ag Kickstarter program would deliver a training package that would give graduates essential skills to get the best possible start on the land, and a clear pathway to a rewarding career in agriculture.

    “Labor is committed to work with industry and the education and training sector to ensure Tasmanians have the best possible pathways to secure, well-paid jobs.

    Dr Broad said Ag Kickstarter is in addition to Labor’s $10 million Free TAFE policy, which would support 5000 Tasmanian students to gain qualifications and find jobs in the state’s fastest growing industries, including building, construction and hospitality.

    Dr Broad said the Ag Kickstarter skills package would include:

    • First aid

    • Manual handling

    • Chemical Certification (level 3)

    • Tractor (with loader & 3PL attachment) operation

    • Fork lift operation

    • ATV 4×4 operation

    • Chainsaw operation

    • Work shop safety & awareness (new course)

    Shane Broad MP

    Shadow Minister for Primary Industry

    /Public Release. View in full here.