The future of Tasmania's agriculture workforce has been strengthened with the signing of the latest Industry Skills Compact.
Minister for Skills and Training, Felix Ellis, said the Compact and associated priority Action Plan signalled a shared vision for a training and workforce development system that is accessible, job focussed and responsive.
"Through this active partnership, we're investing in the future of the agriculture sector through workforce development, skills and training," said Minister Ellis.
"The agriculture sector's commitment to this partnership shows the industry is intent on investing in its own future, while working alongside government to create a clear path for growth," Mr Ellis said.
"The sector needs skilled workforces to take advantage of these opportunities.
"The Industry Skills Compact is a commitment to deliver a sustainable and highly skilled agricultural workforce in Tasmania, while building on the great work the sector is already doing."
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, said the Compact has been signed between TasFarmers, the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, Primary Employers Tasmania, Fruit Growers Tasmania and the Tasmanian Government.
"Working with industry is a key part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Agriculture and will support our ambitious goal to grow the farmgate value to $10 billion by 2050," said Minister Howlett.
"Tasmania's agricultural sector is the backbone of our economy and way of life. The sector puts food on our table, provides thousands of jobs and supports our rural and regional communities.
"Tasmania has a remarkable opportunity to capitalise on our strengths in agriculture – rich soil, a favourable climate, water infrastructure, enterprising farmers and a premium brand – to significantly expand and accelerate our agricultural industries and food manufacturing capacity."
The Agriculture Industry Skills Compact and Action Plan can be found on the Skills Tasmania website at https://www.skills.tas.gov.au/about/industry_partnerships_and_collaboration/agriculture.
