Agri-food is a key sector of the Australian economy, contributing $65B (3.5%) to GDP and $36B (10%) to national export income. Supporting further growth of the sector is a strategic priority for the Commonwealth and state governments and for industry. This growth, and the overall sustainability of the sector, are currently at risk due to challenges in attracting and retaining young people into agri-food careers. Solutions to these challenges remain elusive and new ways of understanding and addressing the challenges are urgently needed.
In this project we investigate how and why young people aged 15-35 years enter, stay or leave jobs and careers in the agri-food sector, including farming, farm services and food processing. The research expects to generate new knowledge to improve youth career trajectories using an innovative, interdisciplinary and engaged research design with young people.
What will the research involve?
The research has 3 phases conducted over the course of three years:
- Year 1
-
A national level longitudinal analysis of Australian labour market data (the HILDA dataset) about young people’s job and career outcomes.
- Year 2
-
An in-depth study of young people’s experiences in the agri-food sector in Victoria through surveys, interviews and discussions with over 1500 young people.
- Year 3
-
Workshops with young people and relevant stakeholders to apply the findings to policy change and action.
How will young people and their communities benefit?
The findings will be used to:
- Strengthen career outcomes for young people
- Improve the sustainability and growth of the agri-food sector
- Support rural and regional communities and their economic prosperity
- Co-design youth-appropriate industry and education policy proposals
- Provide new models of youth engagement in the agri-food sector
The research will assess how well current ways of engaging young people are working. The project will ascertain the extent to which young people’s aspirations, experiences, education, training and support needs are addressed by current efforts of industries, communities and government.
Participate in the research
As the research progresses, we will be calling for young people to participate in the research by sharing their experiences. If you are a young person aged between 15-35 who is involved in, or who has left the agri-food sector, we would like you to be involved. The research will be underway soon, in the meantime please express your interest here.
Who is funding the research?
The research is funded through the Australian Research Council Linkage program, and with co-investment by the University of Melbourne and 7 partner organisations from the agri-food sector.
Where is the research taking place?
The project spans six rural and regional hubs in Victoria, Australia, including Horsham, Hamilton, Healesville, Leongatha, Shepparton and Mildura.
Meet the team
The team
Reference Group
The group involves stakeholders and youth representatives. The role of the group is to provide input to the research over the 3 years of its operation.
Phoebe Dillon
Partner organisations
Contact
Express interest in the research or have any questions?
Or contact Catherine Waite directly on 0481 095 593 or cwaite@unimelb.edu.au