The Queensland Government has revealed the 2026 Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Program (GISP), in a move to drive skilled labour in the industry.
Minster for finance, trade, employment, and training Ros Bates said the selected schools will benefit greatly from Queensland’s diverse and emerging agriculture sector and help create a better and stronger economy.
“Agriculture has always been a cornerstone industry in Queensland, trading in best practice and providing quality products to Australia and the world,” she said.
“As the sector continues to evolve, embracing science, technology, and sustainability, our agriculture workforce will evolve along with it. Our investment in the Agribusiness GISP is one way we are securing a pipeline of skilled workers to help deliver a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, and I’m excited to see CQU grow the Agribusiness Gateway by reaching into new schools, connecting students with industry, and encouraging even more young Queenslanders to pursue rewarding, skilled ag careers.”
The program will link students and teachers with farmers, agri-tech innovators, and industry leaders, to deliver hands-on experience and provide clear and open pathways to careers in Queensland’s growing primary industries sector.
Each school will have direct access and communication with CQUniversity, to allow students to gain connections in the Queensland agricultural industry.
Minster for primary industries Tony Perret said that the Queensland Government is delivering a fresh start for the sector, and the promise of more skilled labour.
“Appropriately skilled workforce is fundamental to meeting our ambitious target to increase the value of primary industries to $30 billion by 2030, and this initiative will contribute to the effort,” he said.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to building a strong pipeline of skilled workers who are drawn to primary industries, a vibrant sector which offers its work force long-term careers. We need to expose students from all backgrounds, including the city, to the industry that has embraced technology and innovation, and is crying out for talented diverse workforce.”
CQUniversity senior lecturer and researcher Jamie Manning said that the strong interest in agriculture by the Government is exciting for the future of the industry.
The quality of the applications from new locations and schools across Queensland really showed the widespread demand for support to start developing agricultural interest, skills and a future workforce in our schools,” she said.
“We are excited to support our successful schools for their journey into agriculture, discovering agri-tech, and developing programs to empower future farm innovators.”