Forecasted growth for GDP in the dairy industry is more than 21% between 2023 and 2027.
Almost everyone in the dairy workforce starts out as a farm assistant. This suggests that training needs to be at a reasonably low level to capture people, with level 3 and 4 qualifications being more useful than level 5.
The Level 2 sector-entry qualifications are also a priority because they support people to gain basic employability skills. New entrants to the workforce need to get these core qualifications when they start out in the industry. However, there are some pressing skills gaps around data analysis and leadership, which requires higher level 5 qualifications and credentials. If current training levels are only maintained, there will not be enough trained people to meet the skills demand from industry, and the gap will only get wider.
Many farm managers do not have formal training, and upskilling them is a priority for industry. The pan-sector Emerging Leadership Micro-Credential is a focus for the industry.
The industry is increasingly requesting shorter training options, such as micro-credentials with seasonal and regional considerations being a priority. Work-place based learning is preferred, but the bigger priority is that training is available across the regions where the workforce is based.
In our engagement with industry on our draft advice, the following skill needs were identified: technology use, data analysis, environmental considerations, animal welfare, milk quality, biosecurity, staff management and training skills. Biosecurity and health and safety are high risk areas due to migrants filling workforce gaps when they aren’t trained.
Business skills were also identified as an industry priority, but industry noted that the changing of the funding rate for the Diploma in Primary Industries Business Management (Level 5) has resulted in providers no longer offering this programme.
Industry also noted the impact of the policy on visa-holders not being eligible for domestic fees. These workers are no longer accessing training which raises biosecurity and food safety risks and potentially affects productivity.
See Qualifications table here.