Frequently
Asked Questions

Participants

• Who can participate?

  The AgCAREERSTART program is open to anyone who is between the age of 17 to 25 and has the right to work in Australia.

• When do applications close?

  Applications for 2024 intake open on the 14th of August 2023 and close on the 15th of October 2023.

• What can I expect to get out of the program?
  On top of the skills, experience and mentoring you will receive while completing your paid gap-year on an Australian farm, you will also be provided with a training grant, access to FarmSafe’s basic safety training as well as many opportunities to build your network and funding to attend industry events such as the National Farmers’ Federation Conference, Innovation Generation and AgQuip.
• How are farms selected for the program?

  All farms are required to undertake a suitability and safety screening to ensure a safe, positive, and rewarding experience.

• What happens after the program?
  AgCAREERSTART is just the start of your career in agriculture. Towards the end of your gap-year our Training and Career Development Officer will get in touch with you and organise a 1-1 session where you can talk about your experience, what you have learnt and where you would like your career to go next. The gap-year program is designed as a pathway into agriculture and could lead to many exciting different opportunities in the agricultural industry.
• Will I get to meet other participants?
  Yes! You will be connected with other participants in your area and be added to a national network of AgCAREERSTART participants.
• What do I need to do to apply?
  • 800 word written statement or <5 min video which explains why you are interested in the AgCAREERSTART program, what you hope to get out of the program and anything that shows why you are a great candidate for the AgCAREERSTART program. Farmers will get to see your statement/video, so this is your chance to sell yourself!
  • Up-to-date resume – please include education, work experience, skills, correct contact information
  • You will need a professional referee who can complete a written reference form – this cannot be a relative (no step-mums, boyfriends, aunts etc). Examples of non-related references are school teacher, sports coach, employer
• What does the application process look like?
  • Submit your application using our online system.
  • Your application and your reference information will be verified.
  • Your application is then matched to a suitable farming opportunity (based on industry and location preferences)
  • When a suitable farm match is made, you will be connected with the farmer for a compatibility meeting where you can discuss the role in more detail.
  • If the meeting is successful, the farmer will offer you a position on the farm and will issue a contract of employment.
  • If the meeting is unsuccessful for any reason, you will re-enter the matching process.
• Do I need a Driver’s license?
  • A probationary driver’s license is STRONGLY recommended.
  • Please be aware that farms are geographically spread out and, in most cases, will not be near public transport or close to townships. This will mean that you will need a driver’s license and, in many cases, your own vehicle (some farms may offer use of a vehicle, but this is farm dependent).
  • A driver’s license will ensure that you can drive to nearby towns to purchase groceries, sport, community activities and local attractions.
• Do I get paid?

  Yes, the AgCAREERSTART program is an on-farm working gap year, rates of pay will depend on the type of farm, the role, your experience but all pay rates will be in accordance with the appropriate Award.

• Where will I be placed?
  • During the application process you will be asked whether you would like to relocate interstate, or whether you are happier staying closer to home.
  • When we are matching you with a farm, we take into consideration your location preference and industry preferences and try to match you to an appropriate farm.
• What kinds of farm placements are there?

  We have a range of farming placements available all over Australia! Please visit the Info for Participants page for more ideas.

• Do I get accommodation?

  This is farm dependent – many farmers will provide accommodation, however in some cases you may have to find your own accommodation. You can elect whether or not you are happy to find your own accommodation during the application process.

• Do I get to pick the farm I work at?

  Upon application you will be asked about your industry preferences and every effort is made to match you with your chosen preferences. We have a range of farm opportunities available and if your first preference is unavailable, we ask you to be open-minded about other farms opportunities.

• How do I know my application has been received?

  You will receive an email from AgCAREERSTART indicating we have received your application and it is being processed.

• My circumstances have changed, I no longer wish to be a part of the AgCAREERSTART program
  We understand circumstances change. If you wish to withdraw your application, you can do so at any time by emailing agcareerstart@nff.org.au
• How can I ensure I have the best chance of getting into the AgCAREERSTART program?
  • Use the written statement/video to demonstrate that you are a great applicant.
  • If you have agricultural experience, make sure it is highlighted on your resume.
  • If you don’t have specific agricultural experience, show how your skills are transferable – for instance, if you have hospitality experience this might translate into dealing well with pressure and it might mean you have great communication skills.
  • Answer emails and phone calls in a timely manner. Understand that extended delays in communication may result in your application being withdrawn from the process.
• Do I need prior agriculture experience?

  No, the AgCAREERSTART program is open to anyone with a passion for agriculture and a can do attitude! Farmers are looking forward to supporting training young people in agriculture.

• I have pets, can I bring them on farm?

  Whilst we love our animals, any pets that you might wish to bring on farm must be approved by the farmer. Please note that bringing pets may limit your chance of placement at some farms.

• Do I get to meet the farmer before moving to the farm?
  • All participants will get to have a compatibility meeting with the farmer they have been matched with before commencing on-farm. Where possible, we strongly encourage that this meeting be conducted in person.
  • This meeting will allow you to ask questions about the role, the accommodation, the rates of pay, start date, etc.
  • If this meeting is successful, the farmer will issue a contract of employment.
  • We encourage parents to be involved in this process.
• What support do I get whilst on farm?
  • All of our farmers are thoroughly screened to ensure they are best practice employers.
  • Regular check in from the ACS team to ensure that participants are having an enjoyable experience.
• Is AgCAREERSTART open to people of all abilities?
  Yes, please let us know if you have any specific needs so that we can appropriately match you with the right host farm.
• What other benefits do I get by joining AgCAREERSTART?
  As well as a full time paid farm placement, you will also receive a training grant to upskill yourself and funding to attend industry events
• What can I do with my training grant?
  You can use your training grant in a variety of ways, including to complete formal education or alternatively training in specific fields such as obtaining a ticket or license.
• What if I already have experience in agriculture?

  Great! The AgCAREERSTART team has the expertise and networks to find you your next opportunity in the industry and location of your preference. In addition, you can use the Training and Engagement Bursary to further your professional skills and increase your industry networks.