MLA launches Pasture Pathways program for livestock advisors

14 April 2025

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has unveiled the new Pasture Pathways program for grazing advisors, with applications now open from interested groups to participate.

Pasture Pathways is a unique training and development initiative designed to equip new, graduate, and developing advisors with additional skills and knowledge needed to provide enhanced pasture agronomy and grazing management advice to red meat producers across Australia.

According to MLA's Program Manager for Adoption, Sally Leigo, Pasture Pathways is an 18-month development program aimed at addressing the shortage of pasture and grazing land management advisors.

"Organisations providing pasture agronomy and grazing land management advisory services are invited to apply to participate in this innovative program," Ms Leigo said.

There are up to 10 places available and the program prioritises participants in Northern Australia, with half of places designated for regions including Queensland, the Northern Territory, and northern Western Australia.

"Northern Australia faces a significant gap in local pasture and grazing land management advisory capabilities compared to the more intensively managed southern regions," Ms Leigo said.

"This is due to the distances in Northern Australia, the extensive size of grazing properties and the prevalence of native pastures, which require different management. Expanding advisory services in northern Australia will be instrumental in enhancing local expertise and providing better support to red meat producers in these areas."

The Pasture Pathways program commences in July 2025 and concludes in December 2026. It features:

• Training in MLA programs and guidance from experienced advisors.
• Development of personal skills critical to a sustainable career in pasture advisory.
• A combination of face-to-face workshops, online learning, and self-paced e-learning.
• Networking opportunities with industry experts, advisors, and MLA managers.

Applications close 18 May 2025. Interested businesses and individuals can submit an Expression of Interest to Program Manager Ben Reeve at [email protected]

This program will be managed and delivered by Meridian Agriculture, co-funded by the MLA Donor Company (MDC), with training provided by over 25 industry experts.

Pasture Pathways builds on MLA's commitment to supporting innovation and excellence in Australia's red meat and livestock sector.

For media enquiries contact:

Jack Johnston, MLA Corporate Affairs and Media Manager, p: 0407 282 971, e: [email protected]

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