The announcement of the 2020 State Government budget has left little funding for the Longreach and Emerald Agricultural Colleges, causing a significant blow to the agricultural industry and the future training of agricultural workers.
Ag Force CEO Michael Guerin said despite acknowledging agriculture was deemed an essential industry in Queensland, the State Government was showing a lack of commitment to the colleges which provide industry relevant training.
Mr Guerin said by reducing funding, the Government is at risk of missing out on opportunities for not only the agriculture industry, but tourism training and commercial gain.