What’s happening?
AgriFutures Australia has opened applications for its new People and Capability Program, committing up to $200,000 to strengthen workforce and leadership capability across its emerging industries.
The pilot program will fund industry-led initiatives focused on attraction, retention, skills development and leadership growth.
Two grant streams are available. Industry Workforce Program Grants offer up to $25,000 to deliver or adapt workforce initiatives. Capacity Building Grants provide up to $10,000 to strengthen organisational capability and leadership development.
Applications open Monday, 16 February and close Friday, 13 March 2026.
Why it matters
Workforce gaps are affecting industries from chicken meat and rice to industrial hemp and truffles.
AgriFutures General Manager, Levied and Emerging Industries, Samantha Beresford, said the pressure is being felt across the supply chain.
“Workforce shortages are a daily reality for our rural industries,” Ms Beresford said.
“Whether it’s finding skilled people on the ground or developing the next generation of leaders, the availability of capable people is now a key factor in whether industries can grow, innovate and remain competitive.”
She said the focus is on long term impact.
“This program is about investing in people, building confidence and capability, and creating stronger pathways into agriculture,” she said.
“By focusing on outcomes and measuring impact, we can support immediate workforce needs while also building skilled and capable people for the future.”
Local impact
Industry associations, individuals and service providers that support levied and emerging industries are encouraged to apply.
Projects must show strategic alignment, measurable impact, scalability, innovation and clear outcomes.
The aim is to build leadership depth and practical skills within industries, supporting productivity and resilience.
By the numbers
- Up to $200,000 is being invested through the People and Capability Program to address workforce and leadership pressures.
- AgriFutures represents 13 levied industries, including chicken meat, rice, honey bee and pollination, ginger, tea tree oil, pasture seeds, export fodder, thoroughbred horses, kangaroo, buffalo, deer, goat fibre and ratite.
- Funding is available in two streams, with grants of up to $25,000 and $10,000 designed to support targeted workforce and capability initiatives.
Zoom in
The program is structured to give industries flexibility. Grants can be used to adapt existing initiatives or create new ones that address specific workforce needs.
Leadership capability is a core focus, recognising its role in building a resilient and industry led agricultural sector.
Zoom out
AgriFutures Australia, established in 1990, invests in research, development and innovation to advance the prosperity, sustainability and resilience of its industries.
It also supports emerging sectors such as industrial hemp, truffles, coffee, hazelnuts, insects, sesame, crocodile and Indigenous native foods.
What to look for next?
Applications close Friday, 13 March 2026.
Projects are expected to show practical outcomes and long-term workforce impact.
