To enable a primary sector workforce that is more inclusive and better positioned to increase the productivity, sustainability and value of our primary industries, we need to attract, train and retain school leavers, university graduates and other primary sector workers.

Programmes include:

• New Zealanders in Jobs
• Opportunity Grows Here
• Jobs for Nature.

Highlights

Over 10,000 New Zealanders are employed in primary sector jobs through Fit For a Better World initiatives. Work has started to expand the programme to address long-term job needs.

DairyNZ is developing a Dairy Sector Workforce Transition Plan, due in the first half of 2022.

NZFOA is working on the Generation Programme to make it easier to attract, recruit, train, and retain people, emphasising projected labour demands for the next 2 to 5 years.

Government and industry need to work together to accelerate digital connectivity for all New Zealanders.

Highlights

As at 30 September 2021 MBIE’s Rural Broadband Initiative has connected 68,531 homes and businesses to broadband networks. They also upgraded 68 mobile towers. The target is for 84,000 rural households and businesses to have access to improved broadband by the end of 2023, and to upgrade 70 mobile towers.

MPI’s Connect Rural New Zealanders deploys broadband in rural areas. The programme increases access to internet and offers financial literacy training and wellbeing programmes. This creates resilient rural communities that can actively participate in the economy.