Another year is quickly coming to a close… the first half of 2023 saw a firm demand for skilled people in the agriculture and food sectors. Despite the scarcity of talent, we successfully filled a record number of jobs in the first half of the year. The mid-year forecast of a return of El Nino and the associated expected dry conditions ahead, appeared to dampen optimism in agriculture and therefore reduce employers’ inclinations to hire, but recent widespread rains in Queensland and NSW may have assisted to reverse this negative sentiment. There is cautious optimism that interest rates have reached or nearly reached the top of their cycle and The Bureau of Meteorology’s long range climate models are suggesting that El Nino could weaken in April 2024 and head back to neutral, so forecast dry conditions may end up being shortlived. It is anybody’s guess what the employment market will look like in 2024.
It is noteworthy that in some sectors of agriculture, a remarkable shift has taken place in response to the scarcity of skilled professionals in certain sectors. Notably, there is a growing openness among industry players to actively support and sponsor candidates from overseas. This encouraging trend is expected to persist, particularly considering the general hesitation among Australians to embrace specific roles in regional and remote areas.
As we navigate the ever-evolving dynamics of the agriculture and food sectors, we remain committed to addressing the evolving needs of our clients and the industry at large. We look forward to the opportunities and challenges that 2024 may bring, steadfast in our dedication to providing exceptional talent solutions in the agricultural realm.
