AgriFutures Australia, Media Release, 13 January 2026

New research will help deepen understanding of the dynamics that influence agricultural labour and skills shortages in five of Australia’s important agricultural regions.

AgriFutures Australia, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), has launched a new initiative to help tackle one of the biggest challenges facing Australian agriculture: building a stronger, more sustainable regional workforce.

The Strategic Analysis of Regional Workforce Pressures in Australian Agriculture project will explore workforce issues across the Riverina, Wide Bay, South East Perth, Murray-Darling and Swan Hill and Toowoomba Darling Downs.

The project will gather insights through surveys and stakeholder interviews, then bring together government and industry to discuss. These findings will help build a greater understanding of workforce issues for government and industry.

AgriFutures Australia General Manager, Rural Futures, Simon Vincent said the project is grounded in listening to communities.

“Every region has its own story, its own strengths and challenges,” Mr Vincent said.

Agriculture is one of Australia’s most innovative industries, contributing billions to the national economy and offering exciting career opportunities. Yet labour and skills shortages and uneven access in some sectors strain regional production systems.

“We want to make sure every part of the workforce ecosystem, from training providers to employers and councils is part of the study.”

Community members, workers, employers and organisations across the five regions are invited to take part in upcoming surveys and consultation sessions. Their input will help shape a stronger, more resilient agricultural workforce for the future. Surveys are open for six weeks with a final report due to be provided in mid-2026.

Community members are invited to complete the survey here.