The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) held a meeting of horticulture industry leaders earlier this week, aimed at exploring solutions to building a strong, reliable workforce for growing and thriving agribusinesses in WA.
Hosted in partnership with industry training group Fair Farms, the Department’s Director for Horticulture and Irrigated Agriculture, Rohan Prince said the gathering was called to address both short and long employment issues that were challenging the industry.
“As borders open and interstate and international workers return, it is timely to examine how to attract and retain people to work in the horticulture industry,” Mr Prince said.
“It is also an opportunity to get supply chain stakeholders in a room and share learnings and experiences and discuss ideas to attract people to work in this vibrant and valuable industry.”
He said DPIRD was continuing to support industry to source short term workers via the ongoing Primary Industries Workers Regional Travel and Accommodation Support Scheme and the Paid Escape initiatives.
He said it also engaged with schools via its PRIMED education program, in collaboration with industry, to promote jobs and careers in primary industries.
“By working together and proactively addressing the employment issues we will be able to create a great workplace environment that attracts people from diverse backgrounds to work in the industry, whether on a temporary basis or as a career,” Mr Prince said.
