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Advancing Disability Inclusion in Australian Agriculture

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 23:33:30 GMT

In late 2024, Rimfire proudly partnered with Ability Agriculture , an Australian organisation dedicated to increasing employment opportunities and providing support for people with disabilities in the agricultural industry. Like many sectors, agriculture faces challenges in fully integrating people with disabilities into the workforce. While progress is being made, there is still significant work to be done to create more inclusive hiring practices.

Supported Employment plays a vital role in fostering workplace inclusion, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Within agriculture, initiatives like those led by Ability Agriculture help break down barriers and create meaningful career pathways. To better understand the current landscape, Rimfire conducted an industry-wide survey on behalf of Ability Agriculture, gathering insights into the prevalence and awareness of Supported Employment and Open Employment opportunities in agribusiness.

Key Insights from the Survey

The survey received 70 responses from a diverse cross-section of the agricultural sector. The primary production and horticulture sectors made up over 38% of responses, while private unlisted companies accounted for the majority (around 70%). Non-profit organisations represented 15.7% of the total respondents.

Disability Representation in Agriculture

One of the most revealing findings was the low representation of employees with disabilities in the sector. While nearly a third of companies reported that 1-5% of their workforce identified as having a disability, a significant 61.4% indicated that none of their employees identified as having a disability.

When it comes to job roles, there was a clear disparity in inclusion. Technical roles had the highest representation of employees with disabilities (10%), while sales and management roles had none. This highlights the need for more inclusive hiring practices across all levels of agribusiness.

Steps Toward Inclusion

Despite these challenges, 52% of businesses reported having workplace accommodations in place for employees with disabilities.

This demonstrates that many agricultural businesses are actively taking steps toward inclusivity. However, more awareness and resources are needed to expand these efforts industry-wide.

Barriers to Hiring People with Disabilities

While some progress is evident, 50% of respondents identified challenges in hiring people with disabilities.

Addressing these challenges requires industry-wide collaboration , education on inclusive employment practices , and continued investment in workplace accessibility .

Push for Inclusive Hiring

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 23:31:29 GMT

Rimfire & Ability Agriculture’s Push for Inclusive Hiring in Agribusiness

In late 2024, Rimfire proudly partnered with Ability Agriculture , an Australian organisation committed to creating employment opportunities and providing support for people with disabilities in the agricultural industry. Like many sectors, agriculture faces challenges in fully integrating people with disabilities into the workforce. While progress is being made, survey results indicate there is still much work to be done to foster truly inclusive hiring practices.

The Role of Supported Employment in Agriculture

Supported Employment is a vital strategy for advancing workforce inclusion, particularly for individuals with disabilities. In the agricultural sector, initiatives like those led by Ability Agriculture are helping to break down barriers to employment and create meaningful job opportunities. These programs not only support individuals but also strengthen the industry by tapping into a diverse and capable workforce.

Surveying the Industry: Where Does Agriculture Stand?

To assess the current landscape, Rimfire conducted an industry survey on behalf of Ability Agriculture, gathering insights into the prevalence and understanding of Supported Employment and Open Employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Australian agribusiness.

With 70 responses collected from a broad cross-section of the sector, the findings shed light on the current state of inclusion in agriculture:

38% of respondents came from the primary production and horticulture sectors.
Around 70% of businesses surveyed were private unlisted companies.
15.7% of respondents represented non-profits.

These insights highlight both the progress being made and the gaps that remain in ensuring greater accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities in agricultural employment.

As agriculture evolves, fostering inclusive hiring practices will be essential for building a stronger, more diverse workforce. Through partnerships like this, Rimfire and Ability Agriculture are working to drive positive change—one opportunity at a time.

Rural Jobs Market Sees Decline Amid Industry Challenges

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:58:37 GMT

Strong global demand for premium agricultural products drove export growth in 2024. However high input costs, fluctuating commodity prices, and interest rate pressures challenged profitability for many producers. Workforce shortages continued to put a strain on operations in some areas, despite efforts to attract domestic workers and reform visa programs for both seasonal and skilled international labour.

Despite this, Rimfire can report that 2024 represented a slowing in demand for workers across agriculture. Annual results from the Rural Jobs Index, a key indicator of employment opportunities in Australian agriculture, revealed the overall number of advertised vacancies was down 18% on the annual figure for 2023.

Agribusiness Salary Increases Show Regional Disparities in 2024

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:42:49 GMT

Agribusiness Salary Increases Show Regional Disparities in 2024

Data from the Agribusiness Salary Review, Rimfire’s remuneration benchmarking tool, reveals a mixed picture of salary increases across Australia’s agribusiness sector in 2024. While some regions have seen above-average pay raises, others have lagged behind, highlighting regional disparities in wage growth within the industry.

The Agribusiness Salary Review, which provides agribusiness employers with live market remuneration data, shows pay rises in South Australia and Western Australia have fallen significantly below the national average for the year ending 30 June 2024. Meanwhile, Queensland and Tasmania have seen more generous wage increases, outpacing other states.

Regional Disparities in Wage Growth

Analysis of Rimfire’s Salary Review points to a varied landscape of wage growth across the country, reflecting the differences in local economic conditions, demand for skilled workers, and industry-specific factors.

In South Australia and Western Australia, salary increases have been notably subdued, with the potential to impact on workforce retention and future recruitment. These regions, both vital to Australia’s agribusiness economy, may face challenges in attracting talent if wage growth does not keep pace with industry trends in other parts of the country.

In contrast, Queensland and Tasmania have provided more competitive salary increases, which could help to position them as more attractive regions for agribusiness professionals. These pay rises are likely driven by strong demand for labour, particularly in industries like cattle farming, horticulture, and crop production, which are key drivers of economic activity in these regions.

National Trends and Local Factors

The national average for salary increases in agribusiness has been influenced by a variety of factors, including ongoing labour shortages, the rising cost of living, and increasing competition for skilled workers. These pressures have led many businesses to re-evaluate their remuneration strategies in order to remain competitive in a tight job market.

However, local economic conditions play a major role in shaping regional wage trends. For instance, local weather conditions, fluctuations in commodity prices, the performance of specific agricultural sectors, and regional investments in infrastructure can all contribute to differing wage outcomes across states and territories.

The Importance of Benchmarking Tools in Decision-Making

The Agribusiness Salary Review continues to be a valuable resource for employers in the sector, providing real-time data on salary trends that helps guide remuneration decisions.

As agribusinesses face evolving challenges such as workforce shortages, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, access to accurate and up-to-date salary data is critical to ensure attraction and retention of key talent.

Businesses operating in regions with below-average salary increases may need to explore alternative strategies to remain competitive, such as offering more attractive benefits, investing in workforce development, or providing flexible working conditions.

Looking Ahead

The findings of the Agribusiness Salary Review underline the importance of regularly benchmarking salaries to market conditions, allowing businesses to stay competitive and position themselves for future growth.

Ag Job Market Shows Resilience in 2024, Despite Slower Growth

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:14:25 GMT

Ag Job Market Shows Resilience in 2024, Despite Slower Growth

The Australian agricultural employment market has shown signs of resilience in 2024, despite a slowdown in permanent job vacancies compared to the high demand seen over the past few years.

According to August 2024 data from the Rural Jobs Index, while advertised vacancies have eased from pandemic-era highs, they remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Year-to-date figures from the Rural Jobs Index reveal that average job advertisements in the 8 months from January to August in 2024 are 46% higher than the decade’s average up to 2020. This indicates that while the sector is no longer seeing the frantic levels of hiring experienced from 2021 - 2023, the need for skilled workers remains elevated, reflecting continued demand within the agriculture industry.

Pandemic Boost Wanes, But Demand Stays Strong

While 2024 has seen job advertisements dip below the peaks of recent years, when demand for agricultural workers surged due to a combination of labour shortages, pandemic disruptions, and global supply chain pressures, the market has not dropped to pre-COVID levels. Results reveal the 2024 year-to-date total is still well above pre-pandemic numbers.

State-by-State Job Market Overview

Western Australia and Queensland have been the standout regions in 2024, recording higher-than-average job advertisement numbers, signalling robust hiring activity in those states. These regions have seen strong agricultural production, driven by both large-scale farming operations and high demand for labour in key commodity areas such as grain, cattle, and horticulture.

However, not all states have followed the same trend. Victoria and Tasmania recorded lower-than-average job advertisement numbers for the year so far, suggesting that demand for skilled workers in these regions may have softened, potentially due to shifting commodity prices or more stable employment levels after previous years of expansion.

Historical Job Ad Trends

The data paints a clear picture of how dramatically the agricultural labour market has shifted since the pandemic. In 2021, job ads skyrocketed, and this surge continued in

2022. While the previous 18 months has seen saw a slight cooling, the figures for 2024 are still notably strong when compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Looking Ahead

While hiring demand in agriculture may be stabilising, the need for a skilled workforce is expected to remain steady, especially as the sector adapts to new challenges such as sustainability pressures, technological advances, and changing market demands.

Despite a reduction in the frenzied pace of hiring seen in recent years, the overall outlook for the agricultural job market in 2024 remains positive. With job ads still significantly higher than a decade ago, and favourable growing conditions forecast for the coming year, the sector looks to remain a key employment driver for many parts of the country.

The data highlights a resilient sector, with hiring demand far outpacing historical averages, even if the boom witnessed over the past two years has somewhat cooled.

2024 Agribusiness HR Review: Insights into Workforce Trends and Challenges

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:07:54 GMT

Press Release August 2024

Rimfire Resources Unveils 2024 Agribusiness HR Review: Insights into Workforce Trends and Challenges

Melbourne, Australia – 12/08/2024– Rimfire Resources proudly announces the release of the 2024 Agribusiness HR Review, marking its 22nd edition and offering a detailed examination of the current state of Australia’s agribusiness workforce. The comprehensive report provides crucial insights into industry trends, remuneration, workforce operations, recruitment, diversity and more.

Highlights from the 2024 Agribusiness HR Review:

Market Growth Amidst Challenges: Despite forecasts of a 14% decline in the gross value of agricultural production, Australia’s agribusiness sector saw growth due to strong global demand, favourable weather conditions, and technological advances. The sector’s annual gross value reached $82 billion, with a forecasted 2% increase for the coming year.

Workforce Trends: The demand for agribusiness workers has slowed in 2024, partly due to rising global inflation and increased local employment costs. However, job vacancies remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Remuneration Insights: Agribusinesses have increased salaries over the past year. While this represents a slight decrease from 2023, significant salary increases were noted in primary production roles, reflecting high demand for talent in this area.

Bonuses and Benefits: The majority of agribusinesses have implemented structured performance reward plans, with over two thirds having such programs in place. Discretionary bonuses have decreased, indicating a shift towards more structured incentive schemes.

Employee Attrition: The report reveals that around a quarter of agribusinesses experienced 100% voluntary attrition. And, many organizations anticipate increasing their workforce over the next 12 months, despite a general slowdown in hiring.

Organizational Practices: The review highlights a decline in the percentage of organizations offering paid parental leave.

The 2024 Agribusiness HR Review reflects the resilience and adaptability of Australia’s agribusiness sector, showcasing how organizations are navigating economic pressures and evolving workforce needs. “Our 2024 report underscores the vital role of understanding workforce dynamics in ensuring the growth and sustainability of the agribusiness sector,” said Mick Hay, Managing Director of Rimfire Resources.

The full report is available for purchase from Rimfire Resources, or as part of an ongoing subscription to the Agribusiness Salary Review.

About Rimfire Resources:

Rimfire Resources is a leading provider of HR and recruitment services within the agribusiness sector. With over two decades of experience, Rimfire Resources is committed to delivering insightful research and tailored solutions that drive the success and growth of the agribusiness industry. Learn more at rimfireresources.com.au .

Media Contact: Jessica Roberts ( jroberts@rimfireresources.com.au ) 0447 306 59

Cultivating Excellence

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 05:39:01 GMT

83% of Agribusinesses Embrace Performance Rewards to Boost Employee Engagement

In a testament to the evolving dynamics of the Agribusiness sector, a survey conducted by Rimfire Resources in December 2023 reveals that 4 in 5 Agribusinesses have implemented structured employee performance reward schemes. The study, which engaged HR and business leaders within the industry, sheds light on the commitment of 83% of Agribusiness organisations to offer performance-based rewards to their employees. Rimfire’s workforce market analysis further indicates a noteworthy 11.7% increase in the prevalence of performance reward and incentive schemes over the past two years.

The Rise of Performance Rewards in Agribusiness:

The adoption of structured employee performance reward schemes has become a hallmark of progressive Agribusinesses aiming to foster a culture of excellence and engagement within their workforce. The survey conducted by Rimfire Resources underscores the widespread acknowledgment of the importance of recognising and incentivising employee contributions to overall organisational success.

Survey Highlights:

The survey, which engaged HR and business leaders, paints a compelling picture of the prevalence of performance rewards within the Agribusiness sector. An impressive 83% of Agribusiness organisations surveyed have implemented performance reward options, showcasing a strategic alignment between employee motivation and organisational objectives.

Insightful Research:

Our research indicates an 11.7% increase in the prevalence of these schemes over the past two years. This surge is indicative of Agribusinesses recognising the intrinsic link between employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall organisational success.

Fostering a Culture of Excellence:

The decision to embrace performance reward schemes reflects a broader commitment to cultivating a culture of excellence within the Agribusiness sector. By recognising and incentivising exceptional performance, organisations are motivating their employees and nurturing an environment where innovation and dedication thrive.

Strategic Employee Engagement:

Performance rewards go beyond simple acknowledgment; they form an integral part of strategic employee engagement. In an industry where the human factor is instrumental to success, Agribusinesses are positioning themselves to attract and retain top talent by showcasing a commitment to recognising and rewarding outstanding contributions.

Through implementation of structured employee performance reward schemes, the sector is signaling a strategic shift towards recognising and nurturing its greatest asset – its workforce. Our insightful research adds depth to this narrative, highlighting the industry's evolution over time. In adopting performance rewards, Agribusinesses are not just investing in their employees; they are sowing the seeds for a more engaged, innovative, and successful future.

Sustained High Labor Demand

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 04:29:22 GMT

Sustained High Labor Demand in Agriculture Despite a Dip in Online Job Advertisements in 2023

In the dynamic landscape of the agricultural sector, labour demand has remained robust throughout 2023, despite a notable decrease in online job advertisements compared to the previous year. The Rural Jobs Index (RJI) reports a 10.8% reduction in online job postings in 2023 as compared to 2022. However, the agricultural industry has managed to maintain a higher tally of advertised vacancies than in any other year since the inception of the RJI.

Trends in Labor Demand:

The Agricultural industry has long been a cornerstone of economic activity, providing employment opportunities in various roles from farm management to commodity exports to research and development. The RJI has been a valuable tool in gauging the employment landscape within the sector, and its findings for 2023 are intriguing.

Despite the overall decrease in online job advertisements, the agricultural industry has displayed resilience, continuing to offer a substantial number of employment opportunities. This trend is indicative of the sector's ability to adapt to changing circumstances, demonstrating the essential nature of agricultural activities and the need for a skilled and dedicated workforce.

Comparative Analysis:

To put the numbers into perspective, a 10.8% reduction in online job advertisements from 2022 to 2023 might seem like cause for concern at first glance. However, when considering the broader historical context, 2023 still stands out as a year with higher job opportunities in Agriculture than ever before.

This upward trajectory suggests that while the mode of job advertisements may be evolving, the fundamental demand for labour in the agricultural sector remains strong. In addition to the predicted climate conditions in the second half of 2023, the dip in online postings may be attributed to various factors such as changes in recruitment strategies, increased reliance on local hiring, or shifts in the way jobseekers and employers connect.

Expert Insights:

Rimfire Resources provides valuable insights into the intricacies of the agricultural labour market, shedding light on the dynamics influencing the demand for skilled workers in the industry. For a deeper understanding of factors contributing to this phenomenon, interested parties are encouraged to contact Jessica Roberts or Katrine Sear.

The agricultural sector's ability to maintain high labour demand in 2023, despite a dip in online job advertisements, highlights its resilience and adaptability. The findings from the Rural Jobs Index suggest that the fundamental need for a skilled workforce in Agriculture remains steadfast. As the industry continues to evolve, organisations exploring innovative avenues for connecting with jobseekers will ensure this vital sector continues to thrive with a supported and proficient workforce.

Agribusiness Optimism

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 03:46:46 GMT

97% Forecast Salary Increases in the Upcoming Financial Year

As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the Agribusiness sector is displaying remarkable optimism for the financial year 2023/24. According to the results of the 2023 Agribusiness HR Review, 97% of Agribusinesses have strategically allocated budgets for salary increases in the upcoming fiscal year. This positive trend has been attributed to the findings of market research conducted by Rimfire Resources in December 2023, shedding light on the impact of economic and environmental conditions on remuneration budgets within the industry.

Economic and Environmental Influences:

Market research in December 2023 indicates that external factors, including current economic and environmental conditions, have played a pivotal role in shaping the remuneration landscape. Nearly two-thirds of Agribusiness organisations cited these conditions as key drivers for increasing their remuneration budgets. This proactive approach signifies a sector that is not only adapting to external challenges but is also investing in its workforce to ensure sustained growth and competitiveness.

Industry Leaders in Workforce Market Analysis

At the forefront of this insightful analysis is Rimfire Resources, renowned as the Agribusiness industry leader in workforce market analysis. Their expertise in dissecting industry trends and providing actionable insights has positioned them as a trusted partner for businesses looking to make informed decisions.

For Agribusinesses seeking tailored support in navigating the evolving workforce landscape, Rimfire invites interested parties to get in touch. Whether it's understanding market dynamics, benchmarking against industry standards, or crafting effective workforce strategies, Rimfire stands ready to provide the expertise needed to drive success in the competitive Agribusiness sector.

The overwhelmingly positive outlook revealed by the 2023 Agribusiness HR Review, coupled with the proactive stance of 97% of Agribusinesses towards salary increases, paints a picture of resilience and strategic foresight within the sector. As organisations gear up for the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming financial year, the role of market analysis becomes crucial. By understanding and adapting to economic and environmental influences, Agribusinesses are not only investing in their employees but are also fortifying their positions as key contributors to the global agricultural landscape.

The Agriculture Boom

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 07:52:24 GMT

Regional Vacancies Drive Demand for Workers

The Rural Jobs Index reveals a remarkable surge in permanent employment opportunities within the sector. The driving force behind this growth? A surge in job openings in rural and regional areas, reshaping the landscape of agricultural employment.

A Decade of Unprecedented Growth:

Over the past decade, spanning from 2013 to 2022, the agricultural sector has experienced a seismic increase in the total number of advertised annual vacancies. The figures tell a compelling story: the total number of vacancies more than doubled during this period. However, what truly stands out is the staggering growth in regional vacancies, which have more than tripled, painting a vivid picture of the industry's evolution.

Shifting Geographical Dynamics:

In a noteworthy transformation, the proportion of metropolitan/city-based agricultural job vacancies has undergone a significant decline. In 2013, 30.6% of agricultural job vacancies were based in metropolitan cities. Fast forward to 2022, and this figure plummeted to a mere 11%. Projections for 2023 suggest a continuation of this trend, with an anticipated decrease that may even dip below the 10% mark.

Rimfire’s Rural Jobs Index:

The insights presented in this article are drawn from Rimfire’s Rural Jobs Index, a valuable resource tracking workforce demand in agriculture. This index focuses on permanent job advertisements, providing a nuanced understanding of the industry's employment landscape.

What the Data Shows:

As permanent job opportunities multiply, it is evident that the heart of this growth lies in the rural and regional areas. This shift signifies not only a change in the geographical distribution of jobs but also points to the vitality and prosperity of the agricultural industry beyond urban centers.

Looking Ahead:

With the projected trajectory indicating a further decline in city-based agricultural job vacancies, the industry appears poised for a continued emphasis on rural and regional employment opportunities. This trend brings with it a set of challenges and opportunities, necessitating a strategic approach to workforce planning and management.

The surge in demand for workers in agriculture, fueled by the exponential growth of regional vacancies, signifies a transformative period for the industry. As the dynamics of employment undergo a profound shift, businesses and stakeholders in the agricultural sector must stay attuned to these changes. Rimfire’s Rural Jobs Index stands as a beacon, illuminating the path forward with valuable insights that can inform strategic decision-making in the evolving world of agricultural employment.

For businesses seeking to leverage workforce data to inform their decision-making processes, Rimfire invites collaboration. Reach out to Katrine Sear or Jessica Roberts to explore how Rimfire's Rural Jobs Index and comprehensive data insights can support your business in navigating the evolving landscape of agricultural employment.

Navigating the Latest Fair work Regulations: What You Need to Know

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 07:46:13 GMT

What You Need to Know

In a significant development for employers and employees alike, Fairwork has introduced new rules set to come into effect from 6 December. These changes specifically address the hiring of employees on fixed-term contracts and the automatic termination of enterprise agreements made before 2010, commonly referred to as 'zombie agreements.' In this article, we'll break down the key modifications and their implications for businesses.

New Rules for Fixed-Term Contracts:

As of 6 December, employers must adhere to a set of new rules when hiring employees on fixed-term contracts. These changes encompass several crucial aspects of employment agreements:

1. Contract Duration: The new rules introduce guidelines on the length of fixed-term contracts. Employers must ensure that these contracts align with the specified parameters to maintain compliance.

2. Contract Extensions: Employers are now subject to regulations regarding the extension of fixed-term contracts. Clear guidelines dictate the conditions under which contracts can be extended, ensuring fair and transparent employment practices.

3. Comparable Contracts: Offering new fixed-term contracts that are comparable to previous agreements is now a requirement. This provision aims to promote fairness in employment terms and conditions for workers transitioning from one fixed-term contract to another.

4. Fixed Term Contract Information Statement (FTCIS): Employees starting on new fixed-term contracts must receive a Fixed Term Contract Information Statement (FTCIS). This document provides essential information about the terms and conditions of their employment, empowering employees with the knowledge they need.

Automatic Termination of 'Zombie Agreements':

From 7 December onwards, all registered enterprise agreements made before 2010 will automatically terminate. Commonly known as 'zombie agreements,' these pre-2010 arrangements have been a long-standing issue. Employees currently covered by such agreements may revert to the relevant modern award if no alternative agreement is in place.

Employers do have the option to apply for an extension of the default period for a zombie agreement if necessary. This allows for a smoother transition period and ensures businesses can navigate these changes with minimal disruption.

Where to Find More Information:

For a comprehensive understanding of these changes and their implications, employers and employees are encouraged to visit the Fairwork website at https://www.fwc.gov.au/. The website provides detailed information on the new rules, offering guidance to stakeholders seeking clarity on compliance and implementation.

As the employment landscape evolves, staying informed about regulatory changes is crucial for both employers and employees. The recent updates from Fairwork aim to foster fair and transparent employment practices, emphasizing the importance of equitable treatment for workers on fixed-term contracts and addressing the long-standing issue of 'zombie agreements.' By familiarizing yourself with these changes and seeking guidance from authoritative sources, you can navigate the evolving regulatory landscape with confidence.

HR Review Results Confirm Hiring and Salary Pressure

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 03:18:34 GMT

Press Release August 2023

2023 Agribusiness HR Review Released

The 21st edition of the Agribusiness HR Review, Rimfire’s annual report on workforce and HR trends , was published in Augusthas been published.

This year,, survey responses were received from 145 Agribusinesses organisations operating across all aspects of the Australian Agribusiness supply chain. Managing Director Mick Hay said ‘I am very thankful to organisational leaders who volunteered their time

and information in contribution to this report. Their commitment allows us to accurately evaluate trends within the Agribusiness industry in Australia.’

Findings from the 2023 HR Review indicate employers in Agriculture can breathe a sigh of relief as it looks like the industry has finally reached the other side of the jobs boom. As reported upon in the findings, data captured by Rimfire’s Rural Jobs Index (RJI) shows, advertisement numbers,

while remaining significantly high, have slowed within 2023, with RJI recording lower year on year job advertisement numbers since March. The total permanent job advertisement count for July 2023 is down 30% from an all-time record high in February this year.

The below graph shows year-on-year comparisons of monthly job advertisement tallies from both the Rural Jobs Index and the SEEK Employment Report. Monthly results for the SEEK general employment market have been on a steady decline compared to 2022 figures since January this year, whereas the Agricultural sector has, until now, remained fairly consistent with last year’s results.

Over the 6 six months to June 2023, the average variance in job ad numbers tallied by the RJI was only 1.2% lower than the first half of 2022, while the average monthly difference in the SEEK results across the first half of the year is 14.7% lower.

The July Rural Jobs Index result (21.3% lower than July 2022) indicates Agriculture is now following the general market, suggesting a less candidate-driven environment than has been seen over the last three years.

(Table for graphing only)

Year-on-Year RJI vs SEEK

With vacancy numbers remaining above the pre-pandemic average, the industry still faces an exceptional shortage of skilled labour, including farm managers, agronomists and other agricultural technical specialists. Attracting and retaining experienced professionals is essential to ensure the industry’s long-term growth and ability to innovate. In times of candidate and labour scarcity, remuneration becomes a significant discussion topic, and while there has been significant pressure on businesses to increase salaries. The growth in salaries in Agribusiness sits slightly higher than the Australian Wage Price Index, but below the Consumer Price Index.

While the El Niño weather pattern expected in the second half of 2023 will result in a return to drier conditions, current high-water storage will provide some protection against drier conditions in the shorter term. Internationally, cropping conditions are expected to improve in several competitive markets, causing supply pressure on Australian crop prices. Simultaneously, consumer demand at both local and international level is feeling the impact of downward economic pressure. The industry’s understanding of operating on the mercy of external factors is apparent in the conservative, yet above average, approach to remuneration changes seen within the Agribusiness Salary Review in the 2022/23 year. Looking forward to the 2023/24 year, HR Review findings indicate that salaries will continue to rise.

For more information please contact Jessica Roberts (jroberts@rimfireresources.com.au) , Mick Hay ( mhay@rimfireresources.com.au ), or call our office on 1300 380 701. New Paragraph

rimfireresources

Advancing Disability Inclusion in Australian Agriculture

Push for Inclusive Hiring

Rimfire & Ability Agriculture’s Push for Inclusive Hiring in Agribusiness

Rural Jobs Market Sees Decline Amid Industry Challenges

Agribusiness Salary Increases Show Regional Disparities in 2024

Agribusiness Salary Increases Show Regional Disparities in 2024 ﻿

Ag Job Market Shows Resilience in 2024, Despite Slower Growth

Ag Job Market Shows Resilience in 2024, Despite Slower Growth

2024 Agribusiness HR Review: Insights into Workforce Trends and Challenges

Press Release August 2024 ﻿

Cultivating Excellence

83% of Agribusinesses Embrace Performance Rewards to Boost Employee Engagement

Sustained High Labor Demand

Sustained High Labor Demand in Agriculture Despite a Dip in Online Job Advertisements in 2023

Agribusiness Optimism

97% Forecast Salary Increases in the Upcoming Financial Year

The Agriculture Boom

Regional Vacancies Drive Demand for Workers

Navigating the Latest Fair work Regulations: What You Need to Know

What You Need to Know

HR Review Results Confirm Hiring and Salary Pressure

Press Release August 2023

Agribusiness Salary Increases Show Regional Disparities in 2024

Press Release August 2024