e-News Edition #38 New

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the brand-new Irrigation Australia website! Our fresh, modern design is built with you in mind - offering easier navigation, improved access to resources, and enhanced directories to connect you with the right professionals and services.

What’s new?

Fresh new look & improved navigation – Find what you need, when you need it, with our intuitive layout and user-friendly design.
Easier access to resources – From training programs to certification details and industry news, our new website makes it simpler than ever to stay informed.
Member & Certified Professional directories – Searching for a certified irrigation professional? Our enhanced Certified Professional directory allows you to filter by certification type, ensuring you find the right expert for the job. Our member directory makes it easier to connect with industry peers and businesses.

The first stage of an exciting journey

This is just the beginning! We’re committed to continuously improving the website to ensure that content remains fresh, relevant, and easy to find. Over time, we’ll introduce even more features, resources, and enhancements to better serve our members and the wider irrigation community.

We’d love to hear your feedback! We have much more flexibility now in controlling content so look forward to being responsive and dynamic moving forward. As we continue to evolve, your input will help shape the future of the Irrigation Australia website. Please email info@irrigation.org.au to let us know what you think, if there is anything that doesn't look right, and what you'd love to see next!

2. Strengthening the irrigation workforce: New initiatives and partnerships

Irrigation Australia is pleased to announce our new partnership with GoHeadhunt, reinforcing our commitment to strengthening the irrigation industry workforce. This collaboration introduces the Irrigation Australia Talent Hub, a platform connecting skilled professionals with leading employers in the irrigation, water management, and landscape industries. The Talent Hub aims to simplify the hiring process, ensuring both job seekers and employers find the right opportunities and talent efficiently.

How the Irrigation Australia Talent Hub benefits you:

For candidates, the Talent Hub offers access to exclusive job opportunities across irrigation and water infrastructure industries, industry-specific career guidance, AI-powered recruitment tools, and direct connections with top employers to fast-track hiring. It also provides personalised career support, inclusion in exclusive company talent pools, and promotes diversity by championing opportunities for First Nations people, women in irrigation, and individuals with disabilities.

For employers, it provides access to a curated pool of skilled professionals, smart hiring tools for streamlined recruitment, and increased brand exposure through featured job postings and industry partnerships.

The partnership aims to exploit GoHeadhunt's marketing expertise to attract more candidates to our industry careers information, particularly Irrigation Careers, but it also gives members the chance to trial a different, cost-effective approach to recruitment. More details about this partnership will be shared soon, but we are confident this initiative will provide significant value to our members and the broader industry.

In addition, we are beginning an engagement process with atWork Australia, a leading employment services provider operating across New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia. atWork Australia specialises in assisting both job seekers and businesses to find the right employment match, offering tailored support, training assistance, and wage subsidies to help businesses grow with skilled and diverse talent.

How atWork Australia can support employers:

Access to a diverse pool of job-ready candidates
Financial support for candidates in accredited training programs
Government-funded wage subsidies of up to $10,000 to assist with hiring and training costs
Support for workplace modifications, diversity, and inclusion initiatives
Post-placement assistance for up to a year to help retain employees

By working with atWork Australia, we have the opportunity to improve industry workforce planning, reduce hiring costs, and create meaningful employment pathways for candidates looking to enter or grow within the irrigation sector.

Join our reference group

To ensure these initiatives meet industry needs, we are forming a reference group to guide us on how we can best coordinate workforce support and employment pathways for the industry. If you are interested in joining the reference group, please register your interest here.

Irrigation Australia remains committed to driving career growth development and strengthening the industry’s workforce through key initiatives. Here’s what we’ve achieved so far:

Launched Irrigation Careers - a dedicated platform designed for individuals exploring careers in irrigation, as well as for parents, teachers, and career advisors who support them.
Developed the “Irrigation Insights” induction course - a free online program providing a valuable first step in understanding the industry.
Established a relationship with myfuture - a leading career information service.
Reviewed funding incentives and initiated applications for grants to support our members.
Introduced a series of webinars, covering key topics such as recruitment, retention, and workforce planning. Our next webinar focuses on innovative strategies to attract skilled professionals (see item 4 below).
Released the new Careers Sponsorship Prospectus - outlining a long-term vision for industry growth and inviting supporters to co-invest in projects aimed at attracting and retaining top talent. If you are passionate about supporting growth in the irrigation industry, please consider sponsoring our efforts.

Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to support and grow the irrigation workforce!

3. Upcoming Webinar with The Lucas Group: Master recruitment in the Irrigation Sector – Strategies for success

Finding and retaining top talent is crucial for the long-term success of any business. But in today’s evolving job market, how can irrigation businesses attract the right people and build strong, high-performing teams?

Irrigation Australia invites you to an exclusive webinar presented by The Lucas Group on Tuesday, February 25 at 12:30 PM AEST, where we’ll explore fresh approaches to recruitment tailored to the irrigation industry. Learn how to tap into soft skills, attract talent from diverse industries, and create an inclusive workplace that drives success.

What you’ll learn:

The growing importance of soft skills in the workplace
Strategies for attracting talent from outside the industry
Practical ways to build an inclusive, high-performing team
Insights from industry experts on recruitment best practices

About The Lucas Group

With decades of experience in agribusiness recruitment, The Lucas Group has successfully placed top talent across the irrigation sector - from Irrigation Hand to CEO. As longstanding members of Irrigation Australia, they bring a deep understanding of industry needs and a track record of helping businesses find the right candidates to thrive.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain expert insights and refine your recruitment strategy. Secure your spot today and set your team up for success! Register here.

4. Advance your career with Irrigation Australia’s training programs

With course registrations filling fast for the next four months, now is the perfect time to set your professional growth and skill-building goals in motion. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, build new expertise, or take your career in irrigation to the next level, Irrigation Australia has the training programs to get you there! View all upcoming training courses here.

Why choose Irrigation Australia for your training?

Learn from the best: Our expert trainers bring years of hand-on experience to every course.
Flexible learning options: With in-person intakes throughout Australia, virtual, and blended learning formats, you can choose the option that best suits your schedule.
Hands-on training: Our courses emphasise practical, hands-on learning to ensure that you not only understand the theory but can also apply your knowledge in real-world situations.

Upcoming courses:

February

Meter Installation & Validation | Virtual Delivery | 25 – 28 February 2025 LAST CHANCE

March

April

May

June

Funding options available!

Irrigation Australia has a variety of funding and subsidies available in QLD, NSW, SA, and WA for the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology (AHC32422)! Click here to find out more and to see if you are eligible. If you have any questions, please email training@irrigation.org.au.

5. Help shape our 2025/26 financial year training calendar

We’re gearing up to plan our 2025/26 financial year training programs, and we want to ensure we’re delivering the courses you need, when you need them, and where you need them!

To provide the best possible training experience, we’re inviting you to share your insights by completing our quick Expression of Interest (EOI) form. Your feedback will help us:

Identify the courses you’d like to see included in our next training calendar.
Schedule training at the best times of year to fit your availability.
Select convenient locations that make it easier for you to attend.
Explore new training needs or additional courses that can enhance your skills and professional development.

This is your opportunity to shape the future of our training programs and ensure they align with your industry requirements.

Have your say today! Complete the EOI form and help us build a training calendar that works for you. We are also scheduling a webinar for early April to demonstrate our fantastic new learning system and discuss the training calendar. Stay tuned!

6. Big news for NSW – Irrigation training courses with potential for 100% funding!

Exciting opportunities are on the horizon for individuals in New South Wales seeking to enhance their irrigation skills and qualifications. Irrigation Australia has secured AgSkilled funding once again, providing eligible participants with the chance to have 100% of their course costs covered through the NSW Government’s AgSkilled program.

This funding renewal opens the door for a series of high-quality irrigation training courses scheduled to take place in regional centres across NSW. Here’s what’s coming up:

Certified Irrigation Installer

17 – 20 March 2025 |Griffith, NSW

Centre Pivot Lateral Move

14 – 15 April 2025 |Likely Singleton, NSW

Certified Meter Installer & Validator

15 – 17 April 2025 |Paterson, NSW

Who’s eligible?

AgSkilled funding is designed to support individuals working in agriculture and related industries. Eligible participants include:

Primary producers, farm employees, industry professionals, job seekers, and school leavers working in the agricultural plant-growing or livestock sectors.
Industry professionals like Irrigation Installers or Meter Installers and Validators may also qualify if your work includes on-farm activities.

Don’t miss out!

Please note, funding is not guaranteed until confirmed, so securing your spot early is crucial. To express your interest, fill in our quick EOI form and you will be sent a more detailed assessment spreadsheet to complete. If you have any questions, please email training@irrigation.org.au.

7. Limited sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities available!

With interest soaring, only a handful of opportunities remain for sponsors and exhibitors to secure premium visibility at the 2025 Waterwise Irrigation Expo! The event promises to bring together the brightest minds, most innovative technologies, and leading experts in irrigation, agriculture, and water management.

Only 2 sponsorship packages left!

Catering Sponsor – Be at the centre of the action during refreshment breaks! Your brand will be prominently displayed throughout one of the most social aspects of the event, keeping your business top of mind for attendees.

Group Leaders Sponsor – Position your organisation as a champion of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Gain high-profile exposure to decision-makers, stakeholder, and professionals across the water efficiency industry.

Download the Sponsorship Prospectus to explore the benefits of these exclusive packages and secure your place!

Only 4 exhibitor booths available!

Looking to showcase your products and services to a highly targeted audience? Exhibitor booths are selling fast, with just 4 remaining! Don’t miss this chance to engage directly with key stakeholders and industry professionals, making a lasting impression on leaders in irrigation and water management.

Download the Exhibitor Prospectus for full details on booth inclusions, sizing, and pricing, and see which leading businesses have already signed up!

What’s next?

The wait is almost over - delegate registrations will be opening soon, giving you the opportunity to secure your spot at this much-anticipated event. Plus, the event program will be released shortly, featuring insightful speakers, engaging group sessions, and more. If you have any questions or are interested in discussing your options, please reach out to rebecca.new@irrigation.org.au.

8. Be part of the fresh new look for Irrigation Australia’s 2025 publications!

We’re gearing up to launch a fresh new look and feel for the Autumn 2025 editions of the Irrigation Australia Journal and The Overflow, and we want you to be part of it! Advertisement and editorial opportunities are now open, and we’re excited to offer you the chance to showcase your brand.

Target your advertisement package to align with your budget and marketing goals. Choose from various options and take advantage of multi-edition discounts when you book 2, 3, or 4 issues. Plus, as an Irrigation Australia member, you’ll enjoy additional discounts to maximise your savings! Download our 2025 Media Kit to learn more.

Editorial opportunities

Short on time but eager to share your latest projects, industry insights, or innovative solutions? Consider featuring an editorial article in one of our upcoming editions. This is a fantastic way to:

Highlight key achievements or success stories.
Share thought leadership and insights into emerging trends.
Reinforce your brand’s expertise in the irrigation sector.

Our editor, Eve White, can help bring your story to life. With your main points and input, Eve will craft a compelling article that resonates with our readers and positions your brand as an industry leader.

For advertising enquiries, email Maddison Coward at maddison.coward@irrigation.org.au.

For editorial enquiries, email Eve White at evewhiteediting@gmail.com.

9. Welcoming our new members for January 2025

Irrigation Australia is excited to announce the addition of several new members for January 2025. These members bring fresh perspectives and a shared passion for advancing irrigation technologies and practices across the country.

Welcoming our new members:

PP Civil and Pipe – WA
Dirtwork Landscapes – SA
Mr Andrew. B – WA
Mr Lourens. G – QLD
Mr Allan. J – QLD

Join Irrigation Australia today!

As the peak national organisation representing Australia’s irrigation industry, we offer unmatched support and resources to help you thrive. Our members include professionals from across the sector, from manufacturers and retailers to water authorities and regulatory bodies, making this a powerful network for anyone in the field.

Did you know, as a member of Irrigation Australia, you’ll gain access to exclusive networking events, discounted training and certification opportunities, and industry insights designed to support your growth and success. Don’t miss out on member-only benefits such as access to advocacy initiatives, discounted advertisement in our publications, and regional updates to keep you informed and ahead in the industry. Learn more about becoming a member and join here.

10. Advertise your services on our Members Directory – Update your details

With the launch of the new Irrigation Australia website, finding industry professionals has never been easier. Our updated Member Directory and Certified Professional Directory provide a streamlined way for individuals and businesses to connect with your services directly.

To ensure your details are accurate and up to date, we invite you to review and update your profile via our online form. If no changes are needed, simply confirm your willingness to be listed.

If you require further assistance, please contact us on info@irrigation.org.au.

11. Mental Health: The hidden link to academic dishonesty

Mental health plays a crucial role in learning and professional development, particularly in vocational education and training (VET). Stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges can often affect a student's ability to cope with academic pressures, sometimes leading to academic dishonesty¹ - including plagiarism - as a way to manage overwhelming demands.

While plagiarism is often seen as a shortcut or an ethical lapse, research suggests it can also be a symptom of deeper struggles. A study by Fu and Tremayne² found that anxiety and depression were strongly linked to an increased likelihood of academic dishonesty, including plagiarism. Understanding the pressures that lead to these behaviours can help trainers, assessors and employers create a more supportive learning environment in the Australian Irrigation Industry.

What drives plagiarism?

Plagiarism is often seen as a shortcut, but research suggests it can stem from stress, anxiety, and fear of failure. When students feel overwhelmed, plagiarism may seem like an easier option.

Many students, including irrigation students, are required to juggle work, study, and family commitments. These pressures can increase stress in relationships, making plagiarism a tempting option. However, understanding the root causes will often help develop solutions that support academic integrity and mental well-being.

The pressure to succeed

High expectations in training and the workplace can easily create pressures. The need to meet competency standards, combined with time constraints, can lead to poor decision-making. A lack of confidence in assessment completion, writing or obtaining workplace evidence may also push students toward plagiarism – sometimes unintentionally.

Studies indicate students experiencing academic stress without coping strategies are more likely to engage in dishonest practices (Tindall & Curtis, 2020). Addressing stress at its source is key to preventing misconduct.

Building awareness and support

Rather than focusing solely on penalties, education providers and workplaces can do a better job, they can:

Provide mental health support – Ensure students have access to counselling and stress management resources. Irrigation Australia has a growing team of Mental Health First Aiders, they’re available for a confidential chat with students.
Encourage open conversations – Create an environment where students feel comfortable to seek help at difficult stages along their learning pathway. Open up conversations in team meetings and pre-starts so that students know who to reach out to, and when they should be reaching out.
Offer guidance on plagiarism – Many cases result from misunderstanding, so conversations on citation and referencing is essential.
Promote time management – Helping students to plan ahead reduces last-minute stress and poor choices. Ensure deadlines are established and managed.

The role of industry trainers and employers

Trainers and employers in the irrigation sector play a key role in shaping ethical behaviour. Supporting students, reinforcing integrity, and recognising when someone is struggling fosters a workforce that values honesty and resilience.

Addressing plagiarism isn’t about enforcing rules – it’s about supporting students to manage stress, seek help, and develop the skills they need for their careers.

¹ Academic dishonesty refers to actions that go against the expected norms of a learning institution. It includes plagiarism, cheating, data fabrication and falsification, collusion, and any act that misrepresents the work being evaluated and the student's actual knowledge.

² Fu, X., & Tremayne, K. (2021). Can negative emotions increase students' plagiarism and cheating? Murdoch Research Portal. Retrieved from: https://researchportal.murdoch.edu.au

If you or someone you know is struggling with stress or anxiety, support is available:

TIACS – Free, confidential counselling for blue-collar workers, including those in the rural sector and irrigation industry: 0488 846 988.

Beyond Blue – 24/7 mental health support: 1300 22 4636.

Headspace – Support for young people.

12. The impact of AI on vocational education in the Australian irrigation sector

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping vocational education and training (VET) in Australia, including the irrigation sector. From streamlining training delivery to enhancing industry alignment, AI is influencing how students, trainers, and businesses engage with skills development. Streamlined training delivery helps reduce the need for students to be away from the workplace for extended periods.

Smarter training and industry alignment

AI-driven data analysis helps align irrigation training programs with industry needs, ensuring students learn those relevant skills for modern irrigation systems, including smart water management and automation. By tracking labour market trends, AI can assist to predict future skills shortages and recommend curriculum updates.

“AI has profound implications for the VET sector, enabling training programs to evolve with industry requirements.” (IA ACS, 2024)

Personalised learning for irrigation students

AI can tailor learning experiences based on individual progress and need. In irrigation training, this means students and employers may qualify to receive customised support, whether they are learning to install pressurised irrigation systems, techniques to install and maintain pumping systems, or efficiency and environmental considerations. AI-driven assessments also provide instant feedback, helping students stay on track along with live training updates for the employer.

“AI-driven education enhances student engagement by adapting content to individual learning styles.” (VOCEDplus)

Streamlined compliance and record-keeping

For Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and businesses in irrigation, AI can simplify compliance with national training standards. AI-powered software can automate assessment tracking, completion and competency records, and reporting, reducing administrative workload and ensuring compliance with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).

Ethical considerations in AI-driven training

While AI brings many benefits, challenges remain, including data privacy, algorithm bias, and accessibility. Ensuring fair and inclusive training opportunities in irrigation—especially for regional and remote students—requires careful AI implementation.

“Ethical AI integration is essential to maintain educational fairness and quality in vocational training.” (ResearchGate)

Impact on irrigation qualifications

Some VET qualifications may be more affected by AI than others. Areas like system design, remote monitoring, and precision irrigation are likely to see increasing AI adoption. Trainers and industry professionals will need to stay updated to ensure that irrigation qualifications remain relevant.

“VET qualifications must evolve to reflect AI-driven changes in industry practices.” (Future Skills Organisation)

AI in irrigation training: Irrigation Australia RTO #91313 and Ammonite

Irrigation Australia RTO #91313 is set to introduce the Ammonite platform, a smart AI-powered tool designed to assist with training, assessment, and irrigation training design. Ammonite streamlines the learning process by providing students with interactive, automated assessments and enabling trainers to track progress efficiently.

A key benefit of Ammonite is its ability to monitor academic integrity, reducing risks of plagiarism and unauthorised assistance. AI-driven analytics can detect patterns of dishonesty, ensuring that assessments reflect the true skills and competencies of students. This not only strengthens the credibility of irrigation qualifications but also helps industry employers trust that graduates have the necessary expertise.

The future of AI in irrigation training in Australia

AI is not replacing irrigation professionals, but it is changing how they are trained. By embracing smart learning tools, irrigation businesses, trainers, and students can stay ahead of industry trends while ensuring water-efficient and sustainable practices.

For more detailed information on course offerings, schedules, and funding opportunities, visit the Irrigation Australia training page.

13. Fertilise Wise: Fertiliser training for turf managers

SERCUL’s Phosphorus Awareness Project has set the date for its annual Fertilise Wise Fertiliser Training, a must-attend event for those involved in turf management and responsible fertiliser application. This one-day course is run by Turf Agronomist John Forrest of Living Turf and is designed for Turf Managers, Local Government Officers, Fertiliser Contractors and Managers, School Gardeners, and anyone interested in learning how to save time, money, and protect local rivers through responsible fertiliser use.

The training provides comprehensive insights into best practices for fertiliser application, equipping attendees with the knowledge to enhance plant health while minimising environmental impact.

Course details:

Date: Tuesday, 8th April 2024

Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Location: Canning River Eco Education Centre, Wilson

Cost: $190 excl. GST

To learn more and register for the course, contact Natasha Bowden at natashabowden@sercul.org.au.

14. Nominations now open for the Horticulture Awards for Excellence 2025

Nominations are now open for the Horticulture Awards for Excellence 2025, providing the perfect opportunity to recognise those whose dedication and innovation drive our industry forward.

With ten award categories available, covering growers, supply chain operators, and industry professionals, these awards shine a spotlight on excellence across all aspects of horticulture. Do you know someone who deserves to be celebrated? Now is the time to nominate them!

Nominations close Friday, April 11, 2025. Don’t miss out on the chance to honour those making an impact in our industry.

Explore the award categories and nominate here.

15. Annual RD Watt Lecture: The future of soil science

The 2025 RD Watt Lecture will take place on Wednesday, March 12, at The Great Hall, University of Sydney, bringing together leading experts to discuss the future of soil science. Soil plays a crucial role in global biodiversity and food production, yet it often goes unnoticed. This event will highlight the University of Sydney’s 80+ years of pioneering research in soil science and its impact on agriculture, sustainability, and education.

Hosted by Professor Alex McBratney, an expert in digital agriculture and soil security, the lecture will feature four distinguished alumni who are advancing soil research, management, and innovation. Dr Broughton Boydell (John Deere USA), Dr Julie Cattle (NSW EPA), Sandra Evangelista (University of Sydney), and Dr Uta Stockmann (CSIRO Agriculture & Food) will share their insights on soil health, environmental sustainability, and emerging challenges in the field.

The event offers an opportunity to learn about cutting-edge soil science, its implications for agriculture, and the importance of sustainable land management. Whether you're in research, industry, or simply passionate about the environment, this lecture will provide valuable perspectives on securing soil resources for the future. Registrations are now open here.

Click here if you are interested in becoming an Irrigation Australia Member.

Click here to view upcoming Training Courses.

Click here to view the latest Career Opportunities available within the Irrigation Industry.

Back to list