Workers joining the grains industry for this season’s harvest will be quickly brought up to speed with necessary skills and knowledge, thanks to an online training package supported by the Victorian Government.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today announced $175,000 in funding from the Agriculture Workforce Plan for the Grains Industry Skills Development and Induction Program, which will be developed by Grain Producers Australia.
The training focuses on creating a safe and efficient workforce as peak harvest season arrives given that the availability of regular seasonal workers from overseas and interstate has been affected by border restrictions to slow the spread of coronavirus.
New workers will complete comprehensive online courses covering farm safety, new hygiene and distancing practices and a thorough induction of what to expect during harvest. This includes understanding the main aspects of grain harvesting such as the operation of harvesters and chaser bins, grain handling and grain transportation.
An important part of the training will lay out for farm managers and centres how to effectively induct employees and how to provide a safe work environment. There will also be a section to support existing workers to get up to speed on best-practice farm safety.
Free for Victorian Workers
The funding includes free 1-year Silver Memberships, to provide training free of charge for many Victorian businesses and workers.
The only requirement is that the person registering for the training lives or works in Victoria.
See the full Victorian Government Announcement Here
