Join the NFF team
The NFF’s purpose is to lead Australian agriculture. At the heart of this is our commitment to a diverse and inclusive team, where different experiences, approaches and points of view are embraced. We know diversity drives innovation. We’re growing our team and programs in the pursuit of NFF’s goal for agriculture to be a $100 billion industry by 2030.
Find out more about what makes the NFF tick here.
If you’d like that personal touch General Manager Corporate Services Amanda Tankey is here to help.
Current opportunities
AgCAREERSTART Project Manager
(Contract to 31 December 2026)
AgCAREERSTART is a transformative gap-year program designed to provide young Australians with hands-on experience in the agriculture industry. Through immersive work placements, tailored training, and ongoing pastoral care, AgCAREERSTART equips participants with the skills, confidence, and networks needed for a successful career in agriculture.
About the NFF
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), based in Canberra, is the peak body representing Australian farmers and agriculture. This is an exciting opportunity to join a team driving Australian agriculture towards its ambitious goal to become a $100 billion industry by 2030.
About the Role
The AgCAREERSTART Project Manager will lead the delivery and continuous improvement of the AgCAREERSTART program. In this full-time contract role, you will oversee the end-to-end management of the program, ensuring its strategic objectives are met while fostering strong relationships with participants, host employers, and industry stakeholders.
The Project Manager will be the primary point of contact for AgCAREERSTART and must be an experienced communicator with a demonstrated understanding of regional Australia and an ability to work with regional communities.
Key Responsibilities
• Program Delivery & Oversight: Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of AgCAREERSTART, ensuring high-quality outcomes for participants and industry partners.
• Team Leadership & Management: Oversee and support the project team responsible for participant training access and pastoral support. Provide guidance, mentorship, and direction to ensure the team delivers a high level of service to participants.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, training providers, government agencies, and industry bodies to enhance program success and sustainability.
• Participant Support & Development: Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing pastoral care of program participants, ensuring a positive and enriching experience.
• Employer Support & Training: Provide guidance and resources to host employers to ensure they offer a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment.
• Budget & Funding Management: Manage program budgets, reporting, and funding agreements, ensuring financial accountability and sustainability. Work with government and key stakeholders to secure long-term funding for the program.
• Marketing & Outreach: Work with internal and external communications teams to promote the program, increase awareness, and drive participant and employer engagement. Actively promote program outcomes to external audiences, ensuring broad recognition of its impact.
• Continuous Improvement: Monitor program performance, collect feedback, and implement improvements to enhance participant outcomes and industry impact.
• Service Excellence: Ensure that the program delivers a high level of service to participants, addressing their needs effectively and providing them with the necessary resources and support to succeed.
Key Criteria
• Proven experience in managing complex programs or projects, preferably in the agriculture, workforce development, or education sectors.
• Ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including young people, industry leaders, and government representatives.
• A commitment to supporting young Australians in their career journeys and a strong understanding of the agricultural industry.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to navigate challenges and drive solutions.
• Experience managing budgets, funding agreements, and program reporting requirements.
• An understanding of pastoral care, workforce training, or early-career development programs is highly desirable.
• Experience fostering a high-performing team and a dynamic leadership style will be highly regarded.
• A passion for agriculture, and a keen interest in working with young people to shape their careers.
To Apply
Include your CV and a cover letter outlining your skills and experience against the key criteria.
For more information on the role please contact Amanda Tankey, email: atankey@nff.org.au
Applications close COB Monday 7 April 2025.
