Thursday, 18 May 2023

Ministers statements: agriculture training

Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education, Minister for Agriculture) (12:15): I am pleased to update the chamber on how the Andrews Labor government is supporting agriculture colleges and our emerging young farmers, agriscientists and agribusiness owners. Recently I visited the University of Melbourne’s Dookie agriculture campus to view the $2 million recently upgraded dormitory facilities. Ten rooms have been redeveloped with ensuites, and there is an ambulatory suite and a new kitchen facility. Whilst I was there I announced a further $21 million collaboration between the government, the agricultural college modernisation program and the University of Melbourne to build at least a further 85 rooms with ensuites. These much-needed upgrades will ensure more students can comfortably access the courses provided at Dookie. Dookie has been supporting regional students since 1886 and provides the opportunity for Parkville campus students to have a rural experience. During my visit I met six young women in their first year of training to be veterinarians. Many of them had no previous experience of livestock handling and were relishing the chance.

Whilst at Dookie I also officially opened this year’s Upskill and Invest – Young Farmers scholarship, encouraging the next generation of farmers to apply and contribute to the future of Victoria’s vibrant agriculture sector. The program offers scholarships of up to $10,000, with each recipient initially receiving up to $5000 to support their training and study and up to $5000 to invest in putting their new skills into practice. Since 2015 the Upskill and Invest – Young Farmers scholarship program has successfully supported 99 young farmers from a range of agricultural sectors. These are just some examples of how this government supports regional communities, ensuring young people get the training they need to fill the jobs that are available locally.