The Victorian Government will provide monetary incentives to people on the JobSeeker program to work in the agriculture sector.
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Under the plan, JobSeekers undertaking seasonal farm work will be eligible for bonuses of almost $2500, with $810 paid after two weeks of work and a further $1620 after an additional six weeks of work.
Crymelon farmer Ross Johns said he supports any initiative that brings young people into the industry.
"Any initiative that is going to encourage workers to upskill, or be motivated enough to want to actually work enough to take up a job in agriculture would be most welcome," he said.
Ross Johns farms mainly Wheat, barley, canola, and pulses at his farm.
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For wide-acre farming, seasonal workers must be skilled to drive farming machines such as air seeders or harvesters.
Mr Johns said he often uses seasonal labour from overseas, as there seem fewer Australians looking for work.
"Quite a few over the years have come from Canada and quite a few have come from Europe. In Canada, mostly Saskatchewan and Alberta, in Europe mostly from Denmark, Jutland mostly, which is the peninsula north of Germany," he said.
"Those people are young and well trained and can operate this machinery in a very competent fashion."
Mr Johns said he would be happy to take Australians on for work but is rarely approached by Australians looking for a farm experience.
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"If someone in Australia has a bit of get-up and go and wanted to be in agriculture, I am more than happy to take a phone call and engage with them and get the skills that are required," he said.
"For some reason or another in Australia, people don't take that independent initiative."
The initiative will supply workers with free training courses to help start a career in agriculture.
The Victorian government has also announced $50 million to be invested towards agriculture colleges like Longerong College.
Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said the new agriculture strategy highlights the Victorian government's commitment to make a career in agriculture an attractive prospect.
"This harvest season is an opportunity to attract more people into our fantastic agriculture sector - and with support and training on offer, there's no better time to give it a go," she said.
"Victoria's agriculture sector proudly supports thousands of country jobs. Investing in purpose-built education and training ensures our next generation of farmers hit the ground running."
Industry groups that support growers in priority harvest regions will also receive additional staff and resources through a new $1 million Seasonal Workforce Industry Support grant program.
The support package aims to address farm businesses' barriers in attracting a local workforce while keeping costs to a minimum.
Mr Johns encourages any young people in the region to consider a career in agriculture.
"I think agriculture is a wonderful industry that is made up of very genuine people. Long-term farming families in Australia, and we are certainly interested in young people that are enthusiastic and have got the right skills," he said.
"Just get out there and have a go. There will be some genuine farmers that will give you a chance to work in an agricultural enterprise."
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