28 Mar 2025
The SuniTAFE SMART Farm Modernisation Project was officially opened this week by the Hon. Gayle Tierney, Minister for Skills and TAFE.
During her visit, Minister Tierney toured the SMART Farm campus and heard from staff about the impact of the Modernisation Project which was made possible with funding from the Victorian Government.
The Project included a $2 million redevelopment, wherein several hectares of new produce were planted, including citrus, almonds, and table grapes. A new implements shed and potting shed were also built as part of the redevelopment.
A further $1.9 million enabled the development of a course dedicated to protected cropping, as well as the installation of cutting-edge technology to support learning in the course. This includes a modular farm, hydroponics, and a fully automated seeding line.
The improvements made to the SMART Farm will support SuniTAFE in providing students with hands-on experience using industry-standard tools, better preparing them for agricultural and horticultural careers.
It will also help to attract new cohorts to these careers by promoting the high-tech career pathways that are possible in the horticultural sector.
“There is enormous potential to have a rewarding career in modern agriculture and horticulture – training at SuniTAFE’s innovative SMART Farm will give Victorians the best start,” Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney said in a media release.
Additionally, the new equipment will improve the SMART Farm’s capacity to participate in innovative research and development projects that promote the continuous improvement of the sector.
“We were delighted to welcome the Minister to our SMART Farm campus and formally open the significant modernisation process that we have undertaken over the last 12 months,” SuniTAFE Chief Executive Officer Brett Millington said.
“These works will not only help us to train the workforce of today for our Agricultural and Horticultural industries but also inspire the next generation by experiencing firsthand the future of growing food for our nation.”
During her visit to Mildura, Minister Tierney also visited Mildura Regional Innovation Centre and Mildura Base Public Hospital where she met with a SuniTAFE nursing graduate.
SuniTAFE stands out amongst TAFEs with its training farm that is also a highly successful working farm, producing world-class fruit.
The SMART Farm campus offers the local community a unique perspective on primary industries, showcasing new technologies and core tools that enhance agricultural and horticultural production.
Recognising the significance of these industries to the region, SuniTAFE supports sustainability and promotes local programs that bolster the local economy.
The SMART Farm utilises regional partnerships to ensure local industries get a say in the training that will impact them. Local organisations are able to utilise the facility for projects and research, with the campus boasting strong connections with Agriculture Victoria and water organisations.
Having an industry-connected facility like the SMART Farm means that local students have the opportunity to attend local TAFEs, interact with regional research centres, and can live and work in their communities.
The SMART Farm changes lives by equipping students with essential skills and staying attuned to the needs of the community and industry. The focus on skills development is evident, with students reaping the benefits of free TAFE programs.