Researching accredited training needs for the Australian Sugar Industry : Final report CG003

Abstract

This report researches training needs for cane growers in Queensland and Northern New South Wales and addresses the project objectives:

1. What level of demand exists for competency-based training within the cane growing industry?

2. What outcomes do growers want to achieve from competency-based training?

3. What are the most effective, accessible and acceptable modes of delivery of high-level business management training?

4. Who provides and funds competency-based training for the cane-growing industry, and what services and products are provided?

Multiple in-depth interviews with sixteen cane growers were conducted in three major cane-growing areas before presenting the initial findings for discussion by a focus group. The research reference group set guidelines for interviewee and focus group selection. Qualitative convergent interviewing was used in consecutive pairs, with questions developed about similarities and differences in responses, until no new data emerged. Cane growers and industry stakeholder focus group validated the interview findings and initial data analysis. In general it was found there were some gaps in current offerings of training in terms of content, relevance, delivery, availability and the needs of various subgroups. These gaps are outlined in the report’s final section and provides recommendations for the consideration and implementation by the project reference group.