NFF Criticises Food Supply Chain Workforce Report for Lack of Actionable Data

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has voiced its disappointment over the recently released final report by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) on the future of the food supply chain workforce. While the report presented 41 recommendations to address workforce challenges, NFF President David Jochinke said it fell short of providing the much-needed workforce data to inform policy and business decisions.

“The Government intended to solve a critical gap in workforce data, but this report has largely restated old problems without delivering meaningful new insights,” Mr. Jochinke said.

Old Problems, Few Solutions

Mr. Jochinke acknowledged that while the report didn’t meet industry expectations, some of its recommendations were encouraging. Key highlights included:

• Working Holiday Maker Program: The report cautioned against changes to specified work provisions within the program, reinforcing its critical role in addressing agricultural labour shortages and safeguarding national food security.
• Labour Hire Licensing: A national approach to labour hire licensing was identified as urgently needed, echoing long-standing industry calls for reform.
• Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme: The report highlighted the need to reduce the costs of placing workers under the PALM scheme to maintain its viability for businesses and ensure maximum benefits for Pacific communities.
• Short-Term Visa Pathway: JSA recommended a targeted, capped visa to address short-term workforce surges in horticulture, a sector particularly vulnerable to labour shortages.

Familiar Challenges

Mr. Jochinke noted that many of the recommendations closely resembled those in the National Agricultural Workforce Strategy, launched by the previous government in 2020.

“The report covers a broad range of issues facing the agricultural workforce, but there’s little here that is groundbreaking. Producers are already acutely aware of these challenges,” he said.

The Road Ahead

Despite its limitations, the NFF sees the report as an opportunity for the government to take decisive action.

“Perhaps the most redeeming feature of the report is that no stakeholder—be it industry, unions, or others—is entirely satisfied with its findings. What matters now is how the government chooses to respond,” Mr. Jochinke said.

With critical issues like labour shortages, visa reform, and workforce mobility still unresolved, the NFF is urging the government to use the report as a springboard for meaningful change.

“All the hardest work is yet to be done. The agricultural sector is watching closely to see whether the government is prepared to back this report with the action and investment needed to address our workforce crisis,” Mr. Jochinke said.

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AgCAREERSTART Welcomes Dozens of Young Australians to On-Farm Careers

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation’s flagship gap-year program, AgCAREERSTART, is back for another year, with dozens of young Australians beginning their agricultural careers this week.

The program connects 17- to 25-year-olds with farmers across Australia, providing participants with job placements, pastoral support, training grants, and opportunities to build networks within the industry. Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, AgCAREERSTART is now in its fourth year and has become a vital pathway into the agricultural sector.

O-Week Prepares Participants for Farm Life

This year’s program began with an action-packed Orientation Week (O-Week) in Ballarat, Victoria, where 54 participants visited farms, underwent training, and connected with program alumni. The event serves as an essential stepping stone for participants, many of whom are stepping into rural life for the first time.

One of the participants, 19-year-old Morgan Carroll-Keays, is moving from Victoria to a beef cattle operation near Stanley, Tasmania. Morgan sees the program as an ideal way to kickstart his career in agriculture.

“Having the $4,500 bursary makes it so much easier. We can upskill across the industry, even beyond our placement’s focus, which helps set us up for the future,” he said.

Morgan added that O-Week gave him the confidence and preparedness for his new role. “I’m looking forward to just getting involved, giving it a crack, and getting my hands dirty.”

A Growing Program with Strong Retention Rates

In 2025, approximately 70 young Australians are expected to join the program, bringing the total number of participants since AgCAREERSTART’s inception to nearly 250. With a retention rate of 83% of graduates remaining in agriculture post-program, the initiative is proving successful in attracting and retaining fresh talent in the sector.

AgCAREERSTART Project Manager, Kayla Evans, highlighted the importance of O-Week in helping participants transition to rural life.

“For many, this is their first full-time job, first time living away from home, and first time without their usual support network,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see 54 fresh and nervous faces arrive, and just days later, leave with new friends, excitement for the year ahead, and a readiness to get started on the farm.”

Building the Future of Agriculture

AgCAREERSTART continues to attract a diverse range of young Australians to the agriculture industry, offering participants hands-on experience, industry connections, and a launchpad for long-term careers.

For more information about the program, visit here.

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Top Issues Shaping the 2025 Federal Election: Cost of Living and Crime Take Centre Stage

By Robert Heyward – source Roy Morgan

As Australians prepare for the 2025 Federal Election, a dramatic shift in voter priorities has emerged. According to Roy Morgan’s survey of over 14,000 electors, the rising cost of living and concerns over crime have become dominant issues, while climate change and government transparency have significantly declined in importance.

Cost of Living Tops the List

Leading the pack, 57% of voters now cite “keeping day-to-day living costs down” as their top concern, a 7-point increase since the 2022 election. This reflects growing financial pressure on households due to rising inflation, housing affordability, and high interest rates. Additionally, “keeping interest rates down” and “managing immigration and population growth” have also surged as key concerns, up 8 points each to 19% and 14%, respectively.

Crime and Law and Order Surge

Public anxiety about safety has escalated sharply, with “reducing crime and maintaining law and order” rising 10 points to 23%—the largest increase for any issue. This shift is particularly notable in Queensland, where concern about crime has doubled to 32%, and in Victoria, where it has risen 12 points to 26%.

The rising focus on crime has already influenced elections. Queensland’s Liberal-National Party (LNP) capitalised on public concern in October 2024, achieving a 7% swing to secure a decisive victory. Victoria’s upcoming by-election in the Labor-held seat of Werribee, where crime is a major concern, could serve as a litmus test for broader voter sentiment.

Declining Concern Over Climate Change

In stark contrast, climate change has seen a dramatic fall in importance, dropping 9 points to 23%. Similarly, “open and honest government” has declined by 6 points to 19%. Both issues were central to the success of the Teal Independents in 2022 but now appear less critical to voters.

Top Issues Shaping the 2025 Federal Election

Shifts Across Party Lines

The concern about crime spans all political affiliations:

• Among Liberal-National Coalition voters, 32% now list crime as a priority, up 15 points since 2022.
• For Labor supporters, crime concerns have nearly doubled from 11% to 20%.
• Even Greens voters saw a 5-point increase, with 13% now prioritising crime.

Immigration and Housing

The rise in concerns about “managing immigration and population growth” (up 8 points to 14%) is closely tied to housing affordability. While it remains a smaller issue overall, its rapid growth suggests it could be a critical swing factor in a tightly contested election.

Implications for the Election

Michele Levine, CEO of Roy Morgan, highlighted the evolving voter landscape:

“Cost-of-living pressures and public safety are now defining issues for this election. The Albanese government must respond decisively to these concerns or risk losing voter confidence. The Coalition, with its strong emphasis on law and order, could resonate powerfully in key marginal electorates.”

With Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria showing significant increases in crime-related concerns, the Coalition appears well-positioned to capitalize on this growing voter priority. However, addressing financial pressures and managing immigration will remain pivotal for both major parties as they vie for support.

The clear decline in focus on climate change and transparency underscores a shift in voter sentiment, with the 2025 Federal Election shaping up to be one where immediate economic and safety concerns take precedence over long-term issues.

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Business Community Rejects Government’s Free TAFE Legislation

By Jeff Gibbs

The Australian Government’s Free TAFE Bill 2024 (Cth) has faced widespread criticism from the business community, with peak employer organisations and industry groups voicing concerns over its emphasis on public TAFE funding at the expense of independent Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).

The bill proposes permanent funding for at least 100,000 fee-free TAFE places across Australia, positioning TAFE at the core of the vocational training system. However, the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) and employer groups argue that the policy undermines the critical role of independent RTOs, which train the majority of the country’s skills workforce.

Independent RTOs Deliver Majority of Skills Training

According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), around 91% of the 5.1 million students in vocational training are enrolled with independent RTOs, which offer specialised, industry-focused training. Despite their proven success, the Free TAFE Bill 2024 would restrict government funding to public TAFE colleges, limiting student choice and access to training.

ITECA Chief Executive Troy Williams highlighted the imbalance in the proposed policy.

“TAFE plays an important role, but it lacks the broad industry coverage and geographic reach of independent RTOs. Government policy should support the complementarity of these providers rather than prioritising one over the other,” he said.

Business Groups Raise Concerns

In submissions to the Senate inquiry reviewing the bill, business organisations have raised concerns about the potential impacts on skills training and workforce development.

• Business Council of Australia (BCA): “Private RTOs deliver most higher-level and complex qualifications and achieve better completion rates and employment outcomes than TAFE.”
• Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI): “By limiting students to free training through TAFE, the government exacerbates skills shortages, as capacity constraints within TAFE limit the system’s ability to scale training.”
• Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA): “The Free TAFE Bill prioritises public TAFE colleges at the expense of independent RTOs, undermining small businesses and limiting the vocational education system’s capacity to meet diverse needs.”

Proven Success of Independent RTOs

Submissions also highlighted the advantages of independent RTOs, including their agility, industry alignment, and superior outcomes.

“Independent RTOs consistently deliver higher student and employer satisfaction, better completion rates, and stronger employment outcomes,” COSBOA stated.

ITECA and business groups argue that funding should focus on students rather than systems, allowing individuals to choose providers that best meet their needs.

Call to Reject the Legislation

ITECA has called on the Senate to reject the Free TAFE Bill 2024 (Cth), arguing that it fails to address the realities of Australia’s skills training system and undermines the proven effectiveness of independent RTOs.

“It’s unfair and inefficient to force students into TAFE when independent RTOs are better equipped to meet their needs,” Mr. Williams said.

The organisation advocates for a policy framework that supports diversity in training providers, ensuring students and employers benefit from high-quality and tailored skills training solutions.

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Timber vs Concrete Retaining Walls: Which is Best for Your Garden?

By Liam Jennings

When it comes to garden design, retaining walls are a functional and aesthetic feature that can help level sloping land, prevent soil erosion, and create stunning outdoor spaces. However, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is choosing the right material—timber or concrete. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these can help you make the best choice for your garden.

Timber Retaining Walls

Timber retaining walls are popular for their natural appearance, affordability, and ease of installation. They blend seamlessly into gardens, particularly in rural or natural landscapes, where their organic aesthetic complements the surrounding environment.

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Timber is generally less expensive than concrete, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious gardeners.
• Eco-Friendly Options: Sustainably sourced timber can reduce environmental impact.
• Ease of Installation: Timber walls are lightweight and straightforward to install, making them a popular DIY project.

Drawbacks:

• Lifespan: Timber is prone to rot, termites, and weathering, even when treated. Expect a lifespan of 10–20 years, depending on the type of wood and maintenance.
• Maintenance: Regular sealing and treatment are necessary to protect against the elements and pests.

Timber walls are best suited for smaller projects or areas where their rustic charm adds to the overall garden design. However, they may not be ideal for long-term or high-load applications.

Concrete Retaining Walls

Concrete retaining walls are renowned for their strength, durability, and modern appearance. They can support large loads and withstand extreme weather conditions, making them an excellent choice for structural and long-term applications.

Advantages:

• Longevity: Concrete walls can last 50 years or more with minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
• Strength: Ideal for high-load areas or large-scale landscaping, concrete walls are robust and reliable.
• Design Options: Modern concrete walls come in a range of styles, including smooth finishes, textured surfaces, and even faux stone designs, offering versatility for any garden aesthetic.

Drawbacks:

• Cost: The upfront cost of concrete walls is higher than timber, including materials, installation, and any professional labour required.
• Complex Installation: Installing concrete walls often requires specialised equipment and expertise, particularly for reinforced or decorative designs.

Concrete retaining walls are perfect for urban or contemporary gardens and areas requiring significant structural support. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term savings in maintenance and replacement can make them a wise choice.

Which is Right for Your Garden?

The choice between timber and concrete depends on your budget, design preferences, and the purpose of the retaining wall. For small, decorative walls with a natural aesthetic, timber is a great option. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, sturdy solution that can handle heavy loads and requires minimal maintenance, concrete is the way to go.

Final Thoughts

Retaining walls are more than just a functional feature; they shape your garden’s character. By weighing the pros and cons of timber vs concrete retaining walls, you can choose a solution that not only meets your practical needs but also enhances your outdoor space for years to come.

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