Digital technology audits

An opportunity exists to participate in an on-farm digital technology audit conducted by phone by Agriculture Victoria, to understand the technology you already have available on-farm and how you can improve its efficiency. Participants will be asked to identify what type of internet connectivity they have, where they have access to WiFi and how they use technology on their farm. Participants will have time to prepare for the audit and will receive a property map and report of results.

• To register for the audit please book a time at https://bit.ly/2VbBXBK
• If you need help registering or would like more information please contact Andy Clark at Agriculture Victoria on 0436 804 656 or andy.clark@agriculture.vic.gov.au
• For more information about drought and dry seasonal conditions support call 136 86 or visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons

This project is supported by the 2019–20 Drought Support Package.
Preference will be given to participants from Central and East Gippsland, the GMID and the Millewa region of North-West Victoria.

New online training for horticulture workers

Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes this week announced $70,000 for SuniTAFE to develop the Horticulture Farm Worker Induction Program, as part of the $50 million Agriculture Workforce Plan. The program will help upskill new workers and allow them to quickly gain an understanding of the horticulture industry. It will also help ensure that a reliable harvesting workforce is trained and ready for the 2020 season and beyond. The training will be free for the industry and jobseekers, including those registered with Working for Victoria.

The program will be rolled out over the next eight months and includes development of 12 interactive units covering topics such as industry awareness, safety, machinery use and harvesting skills. For more details or to register interest as a jobseeker or business, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/agworkforceplan.