Key takeaways
The TNQ Drought Hub, in collaboration with the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), has developed a generic Extension Pathways Matrix designed to support extension organisations across Australia.
This matrix, along with other supporting documents, provides a structured framework for identifying the skills needed by extension officers, informing their career paths and training requirements.
Extension services are vital in strengthening drought resilience by helping land managers adopt new practices and turning research into practical, on-the-ground solutions. To ensure these services are effective, it’s crucial that extension officers receive ongoing professional development. This not only keeps them technically proficient but also hones their interpersonal skills, which are essential for working closely with farmers and communities.
“We’re proud to have worked with Queensland DAF to develop resources that help extension professionals be the best they can be. Excellent extension officers never stop learning, and we hope these tools will assist them on their lifelong journey to acquire new knowledge and skills.”
By upskilling extension officers, we can ensure that Queensland’s agriculture continues to thrive in the face of challenges like drought. Through ongoing education and support, extension officers can remain at the forefront of innovation and resilience, driving positive change across the sector.