Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon Julie Collins MP
Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator the Hon Anthony Chisholm
The Albanese Labor Government's Free TAFE program has helped thousands of Australians kick-start a career in agriculture since it was introduced in 2023.
With support continuing in 2026 for Free TAFE in agriculture courses, there has never been a better time to train in a growing industry that every community across Australia relies on.
Students enrolling in some of the most popular Free TAFE courses in agriculture have seen savings of up to $6,000, depending on the course and area of study.
The most popular Free TAFE agriculture course, Certificate III in Horticulture, has seen over 5,000 enrolments across the country since the start of the program, while the Agricultural Chemical Skill Set short course has seen almost 2,500 enrolments.
The latest ABARES Agricultural Commodities Report forecasts the gross value of agricultural production will rise to $99.5 billion in 2025-26, and over $106 billion when the value of fisheries and forestry are included.
Free TAFE is ensuring Australians are gaining the skills they need for good, secure jobs while helping meet workforce needs in critical industries, including agriculture.
The Albanese Labor Government has now made at least 100,000 Free TAFE places permanent nationally each year from 2027 onwards.
The Government continues to bring industry and employee representatives together to collaborate on agricultural workforce issues and solutions, including through the Agricultural Workforce Forum.
The Government is also investing in measures to help industry appeal to a broader talent pool and build a skilled and safe agricultural workforce, including over $2.5 million to support farm safety initiatives.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Member for Franklin, Julie Collins:
"Agriculture is a key part of Australia's economy and regional communities - and it's an industry with a bright future.
"By removing financial barriers, Free TAFE is helping more Australians train for rewarding careers on the land, in agribusiness, and in the supply chains that keep our agricultural sector strong.
"Our farmers have been clear - they need more skilled workers.
"The Albanese Labor Government's Free TAFE program is delivering exactly that, while helping Australians of all ages take up new opportunities and secure good jobs close to home.
"2026 brings new opportunities for Free TAFE and I encourage Australians interested in a career in agriculture to consider joining such an exciting industry."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:
"We know that workforce challenges will need a range of solutions and a collective effort from governments, industry and unions over the short and long term.
"Discussions with our Agricultural Workforce Working Group have made clear how important it is to continue skilling Australians for rewarding careers in agriculture.
"It's vital that students and young Australians kickstarting their careers, or those looking to transition, have clear pathways into our agricultural sector.
"The Albanese Labor Government is continuing to deliver Free TAFE courses to help more Australians further their skills and explore rewarding careers in agriculture."
