Minns Labor Government backs farmers with $15 million boost

Announced today at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, the funding boost will help ensure farmers and agribusinesses across the state have access to the skilled workers they need to stay productive, competitive, and resilient.

The AgSkilled program delivers practical, hands-on training across livestock, horticulture, grains, and fibre, helping workers gain job-ready skills without the time and cost of full qualifications.

The additional funding will make it easier to deliver training when and where it's needed most and will align courses with seasonal work, expanding access in regional and remote NSW.

The Program is already delivering strong results across regional NSW. In 2024-25, more than 2,300 participants completed over 770 courses across 188 locations, achieving an outstanding 96 per cent completion rate. The previous year saw more than 2,400 participants complete more than 600 courses, with a 96 per cent completion rate.

Long-term funding gives training providers the certainty to invest in modern equipment, engage specialist trainers, and plan delivery, ensuring high- quality training that keeps pace with industry needs.

For more information, and to register your interest - https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/vocational/vet-programs/agskilled

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, said:

"Today's investment means our farmers and agribusinesses have a pipeline of skilled workers ready when they're needed most.

"With long-term funding, this program can adapt to new technologies, sustainable practices, and the changing needs of NSW agriculture."

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said:

"Three years of funding for AgSkilled means farmers and workers can plan ahead, expand delivery, and keep pace with the changing needs of modern agriculture.

"We're delivering on the NSW Skills Plan and making sure critical industries like agriculture have the skilled workforce they need now and into the future."

President of NSW Farmers, Xavier Martin said:

"New technologies require additional skills, and short courses available through AgSkilled aid the development of these skills.

"Participating in short course opportunities though AgSkilled can also lead to individuals choosing to undertake additional qualifications to aid career or job progression."