
Queensland Labor has announced $45 million for upgrading regional school facilities to help train students for industry jobs expected in their regions, including agriculture. They have a commitment to work with industry to address labour issues, including workforce planning, connecting TAFE with industry and training programs on skills needs and development. They have also announced a commitment to provide Certificate 3 TAFE courses in 26 priority skills areas including agriculture. This would be available to Queenslanders under the age of 25.
The LNP has promised to restore the capacity and quality of training for our agricultural sector and is willing to work with AgForce to achieve more regional training support. They have flagged more announcements on agricultural education before the election.
The KAP advocated against closure of the ag colleges and support provision of appropriate training programs relevant to rural operations. They will continue to ensure ag is in the school curriculum but have not committed to a comprehensive program of industry engagement with school children.
ONP and The Greens have not yet announced policies relevant to school and vocational agricultural colleges.