OVER 1 million Australians have shown an interest in learning more about a job in dairy farming, thanks to an innovative industry initiative and marketing campaign to attract Australians to work on farm.
The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a shift in priorities for Australians with many wanting to work in jobs that offer more than just a career, they are seeking meaningful work that aligns with their lifestyle.
Dairy Australia’s research showed that while most Australians previously hadn’t considered working on a dairy farm, the lifestyle and benefits of working on farms is appealing.
In fact, almost 8 out of 10 regional Australian adults agree that after seeing Dairy Australia’s ‘A job in dairy matters’ marketing campaign, they feel more positive towards jobs on a dairy farm.
One in two dairy farmers are seeking people to work on farm, and to help tackle this opportunity, Dairy Australia launched a marketing campaign to drive awareness of the employment opportunities on a farm including the Dairy Jobs Matter website and Dairy Farms Job Board, which connects job seekers with job vacancies.
The Australian dairy industry is demonstrating that working on a dairy farm encompasses much more than milking. A job in dairy farming involves carrying out a wide variety of tasks every day, it can also provide job security, an opportunity to work with animals in the great outdoors, and career progression.
Gippsland local Amy Cosby is a prime example of this, managing a herd of over 200 cows, with six years of agriculture experience, having started out supporting her husband in his role.
Working with new technology, building a business that contributes to global food security, and raising their young family on farm is what attracted Amy to the dairy industry.
“I am so fortunate to be in this business with my husband. We have always dreamt of being dairy farmers because of the lifestyle it provides for our boys, not only getting them away from screens, but it also teaches them what hard work looks like; it’s a lifestyle choice,” Amy said.
When asked what she would say to someone who is considering a job in dairy farming, Amy said, “if you come with the right attitude, good work ethic, and passion, you will be given so many opportunities to learn and develop your skills. It’s such a rewarding career, and best of all, you get to work with beautiful animals every day.”
Dairy Australia’s National People Lead, Mick Fuller said Australians are attracted to the prospects that come from working on a dairy farm, with the opportunity for career progression, to work outdoors, to work with and care for animals, and having a job with purpose being major draw cards for rewarding work in the industry.
“Dairy farming can provide workers with opportunities for on-the-job training, learning a diverse blend of practical and technical skills, which is attractive for Australians looking for this.
“We’re committed to showcasing the unique and rewarding opportunities that can come from working on a dairy farm. There’s plenty of career opportunities that span various skill sets and educational backgrounds, making dairy farming a diverse path for those pursuing a fulfilling career. A dairy farm hand can move into roles such as herd management, animal care, milking operations, quality control and assurance, feed management, farm management, and more.”
The dairy industry produced approximately 8.1 billion litres of milk in 2022-23 alone, employing more than 33,500 people across 4,163 farms.
For those interested in finding out more about a job in the dairy industry, visit dairy.com.au/jobsboard.
To learn more about the opportunities on a dairy farm, visit dairyjobsmatter.com.au
