Our sector has a strong history of developing young people who love working with plants and building their skills and knowledge. We are working with our members, industry partners, tertiary providers and the Government to reignite the training programmes and qualifications that have been so important to our sector.  

With about 4000 people employed in our sector and many unfilled jobs, there are plenty of opportunities for people to join our industry and pursue an exciting and rewarding career. 

We work with other primary organisations to identify the best structures for horticultural vocational eduction.

This work includes:

• Advocating for industry qualifications to ensure that they are relevant
• Promoting free apprenticeships and scholarships
• Supporting our emerging leaders on a strong career path.

To find out more, visit the Plant Careers Website.

The Young Plant Producer competition recognises the best young people in our sector and enables them to take the next step in their personal and career development.

The two-day event pushes entrants to learn valuable new skills, gives them exceptional networking opportunities with industry leaders, and a boost to their careers. Each year our Young Plant Producer joins the winners of other horticulture industry competitions in the Young Horticulturalist of the Year.

Check out the Young Plant Producer website for more information and how and when to enter.

In July 2022, we announced the establishment of the Carol Fraser Industry Training Award (Fraser Award) in memory of Carol Fraser who founded Growing Spectrum with her husband Peter.

Carol, who played an extremely active role in industry training and the professional development of plant producers. This scholarship continues Carol’s educational legacy through its support of those outstanding individuals who have a passion for plants, for training and education, and for our industry.

The Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme has been specifically designed for the food and fibre sector.

The programme develops food and fibre sector leaders with the skills, confidence, awareness, and networks to think and act strategically. It is for farmers, foresters, fishers, producers, growers, and agri-professionals who have a desire to contribute to their rural community, food and fibre production, processing, or profession.

Minimum wage rates increase from Thursday, 1 April 2021

24 Mar 2021

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As a business owner or manager, you need to be ready for the increase in minimum wage rates from Thursday, 1 April 2021.

If you have not yet talked to your accountant, payroll provider or your finance/HR teams now is the time. It is also an opportunity to check and ensure your employment records, processes and systems are current.

The details of the increase are:

• Adult minimum wage will go up, from $18.90 to $20.00 per hour.
• Starting-out and training minimum wage will go up from $15.12 to $16.00 per hour.
• All rates are before tax and any lawful deductions for example PAYE tax, student loan repayment, child support.

For more information please click here

 

 

 

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