Grow Your Future Program extended to April 2024

NGIV are thrilled to announce the extension of the Grow Your Future program until the end of April 2024. Developed as a collaborative effort between the Victorian Government through Jobs Victoria and the Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV), the Grow Your Future program continues to pave the way for job-ready individuals to enter and thrive in the dynamic field of horticulture.

Launched in early 2023, Grow Your Future is an initiative aimed at attracting individuals keen on pursuing careers in the horticulture industry. This program offers a unique blend of paid training, work experience, horticultural education, and mentoring support to equip candidates with the skills and knowledge needed for sustained success in the nursery and green life sector. This not only benefits the candidates but also addresses the staffing needs of nurseries and allied businesses by providing a pool of trained and job-ready individuals.

Since its inception, Grow Your Future has successfully onboarded close to 90 candidates, many of whom have secured permanent employment in various roles within the horticulture industry. NGIV Project Lead Rachna Horn emphasises the positive reception from the industry, with numerous nursery, landscaping and turf businesses, as well as the parks and gardens sector, actively using the program to recruit staff.

She stated, “The program’s pre-screening process enables businesses to save time in filling roles, and knowing that candidates receive ongoing support ensures they can grow and thrive in their jobs.”

“The whole intent of the program is to make the transition into the horticulture industry as supportive as possible, creating a win-win situation for workers and employers alike.”

Additionally, the program has a secondary aim of showcasing the diverse career options and pathways available in the green life sector. This extends to school leavers and those seeking opportunities in a field that offers both personal and professional growth.

As part of the program, NGIV has developed the Grow Your Future website, a valuable resource containing information about the program, training, education, and employment opportunities within the horticulture industry. Visit www.growyourfuture.org.au to explore the wealth of possibilities awaiting jobseekers in the green life sector.

If your business has staffing needs for permanent recruits or if you’re an individual eager to explore a career in horticulture, please contact us. The Grow Your Future program is committed to cultivating opportunities for both job seekers and employers within the green life sector.