The diploma course will be the first of its kind in the area, and will offer units in areas such as crop and pasture production, risk management, soil management, water systems and climate risk.

Member of Murray Austin Evans said the new program would go a long way to secure the future of the MIA’s agricultural industry.

“It’s great to see the NSW Government, through TAFE NSW, supporting the future of the region’s most important industry by offering such a high-level agricultural qualification for the first time,” Mr Evans said.

Mr Evans, who was raised on a Riverina sheep and wheat farm, said the course would enable the renowned food and fibre-producing region to “grow its own” agriculture leaders.

Griffith and Leeton are two of the largest agricultural centres in the MIA, which is renowned as the food bowl of the country and generates over $5 billion to the Australian economy.

“The diploma course is an ideal entry point for those seeking management career pathways in agriculture in roles such as production management or agronomy consultancy,” Mr Evans said.

“Many graduates will also use the knowledge gained in the course to enable them to more effectively manage the family farm.”

The Diploma of Agriculture course can be completed in 18 months and includes six hours per week of face-to-face learning, with the remainder studied online.

To find out more you can call TAFE NSW on 13 16 01.

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