Study Agriculture in Australia

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Learn about the science behind farming and food production

Agriculture studies how to develop land, how animals reproduce, and how to grow and harvest plants, among other things. These crucial processes produce products like food, clothing, medicines, and other things that support and improve life. Agriculture has long been recognised as one of the primary contributors to the growth of modern civilisation. It has been around for quite some time. Agriculture science is a rapidly developing field that has a substantial impact on the environment and climate (StudyLink).

The focus on science and sustainability in agriculture is how we will adapt to our changing climate, declining environmental health, and increasing demand for safe food production to feed our growing populations (The University of Melbourne).

Is agriculture a viable career path?

Agriculture is a good career path if you are interested in food, fibre, bioenergy, supply chains, agribusiness, and environmental protection. According to Graduate Careers Australia, agriculture is a significant contributor to the Australian national economy. Its 126,000 full-time farmers produce $137 billion in product each year, accounting for 12% of Australia's GDP. Agriculture and related industries support 1.6 million jobs in Australia (The University of Sydney).

What you will learn

You might study modules on soil management, crop nutrition, livestock science, crop production, agricultural business, and agri-food marketing. A variety of modes will be used to deliver your degree. They might consist of seminars and lectures in addition to lab and practical practice. Your study may also give you the chance to participate in a work placement (StudyLink).

What are the career opportunities in agriculture?

In Australia, the majority of agricultural job opportunities are in the private sector, which includes agribusinesses, private consultancies, and laboratories. Graduate positions are also available in CSIRO, state, and federal government departments. Opportunities exist in government agriculture departments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), agribusiness, and the CGIAR (The University of Sydney).

Agricultural employment opportunities

Production Employment can be directly on farms or in agribusinesses that service farms. These include farm consultants, agribusiness, commodity market services and financial or banking advice.

Research Australia’s productivity is driven by research and development, which ranges from plant and animal breeding, pest, weed and disease management, nutrition, and farm systems to farm business economics.

Natural resource management Farmers are our frontline environmentalists, they dedicate a huge amount of resources to managing pests and weeds, soil, natural vegetation and water.

Food services Farm production is only the beginning, most commodities need to be marketed, processed, packaged, transported and sold.

Education and training Knowledge and skills development through schools, universities and adult education.

Policy People with agricultural knowledge are sought in the public and private sectors for policy formulation and management, including trade policy, biosecurity, industry policy and commercial advice.

(The University of Sydney)

What's the starting salary in agriculture?

As an agriculture graduate, the starting salary is typically between $50 and $60,000 per year, quickly rising to more than $70,000 per year with 2 to 3 years of experience (The University of Sydney).