The workshop was hosted by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) in partnership with industry training and certification group Fair Farms.
DPIRD horticulture and irrigated agriculture director Rohan Prince said the gathering was convened to address both the short term and long term employment challenges facing the industry.
Mr Prince said the department would work with industry to facilitate initiatives that created a more stable workforce for the future.
“As borders open and interstate and international workers return, it is timely to examine how to attract and retain people to work in the horticulture industry,” he said.
“It is also an opportunity to get supply chain stakeholders in a room and share learnings and experiences and discuss ideas to attract people to work in this vibrant and valuable industry.”
DPIRD continues to support industry to source short term workers via the ongoing Primary Industries Workers Regional Travel and Accommodation Support Scheme and the Paid Escape initiatives.
The department also engages with schools via its PRIMED education program, in collaboration with industry, to promote jobs and careers in primary industries.
“By working together and proactively addressing the employment issues we will be able to create a great workplace environment that attracts people from diverse backgrounds to work in the industry, whether on a temporary basis or as a career,” Mr Prince said.
