From agronomy to data and business leadership, Australian horticulture offers more career opportunities than many people realise. A new program is hoping to change that.

Through Hort Innovation's Careers in Horticulture project, delivered by AUSVEG, students, job seekers and educators are gaining greater access to practical tools that showcase the diverse and rewarding careers available across Australia's horticulture industry, while strengthening connections between industry, education, and future employees.

Hort Innovation’s General Manager of Production and Sustainability R&D, Anthony Kachenko, said attracting the next generation of talent is critical to the industry's long-term success.

"Australian horticulture offers far more career opportunities than many people realise, from production and agronomy through to technology, logistics, research and business leadership. By helping students and job seekers better understand these opportunities, we're building awareness of an industry that offers meaningful careers and plays a vital role in feeding Australians and the world.”

A cornerstone of the project is the Growing a Career in Horticulture booklet, which highlights career pathways across the sector and helps students better understand the opportunities available beyond the farm gate. An updated edition will provide fresh insights into the evolving nature of horticulture and the skills needed for the future.

Technical Specialist Danny Rickard was featured in the original Growing a Career in Horticulture booklet, sharing his experience within the horticulture sector.

“Horticulture offers a variety of roles suitable for people who enjoy working outdoors and contributing to the production of food for families worldwide. The industry embraces innovative technology and continuously strives for improvement. If you're considering a career in horticulture, don’t be afraid to give it a try.”

AUSVEG General Manager - Corporate Affairs, Lucy Gregg, spoke about the importance of highlighting the many pathways available in horticulture.

“Raising awareness about the many varied and rewarding opportunities that exist in Australian horticulture is key to encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in our vital and vibrant industry. By highlighting the numerous and diverse career pathways available in horticulture, this project can help strengthen the industry by attracting new talent, skills and innovators across a wide variety of fields.”

The project will also produce a suite of Grow Your Career videos, featuring real people working across the industry and sharing firsthand experiences of the varied and rewarding careers available in horticulture.

Together, these efforts are helping strengthen the industry's future workforce by inspiring more people to explore careers that support one of Australia's most innovative and fastest growing agricultural sectors.