About vegetablesWA

vegetablesWA (VWA) has been the peak industry body for more than 75 years, representing 900+ vegetable growers in Western Australia. Its purpose is to assist vegetable growers, industry and government to maintain a profitable and sustainable vegetable industry.

The Western Australian Vegetable industry is changing rapidly – dealing with issues including changing water availability, advances in technology and threats from new pests and diseases. vegetablesWA has a team of highly skilled experts who tackle these issues daily, while providing valuable services to vegetable growers to help support their businesses. These include advocacy and representation, research and development extension, value chain and export development, benchmarking, quality assurance, and marketing and business services.

VWA is home to VegNET, the National Vegetable Extension Network, connecting Australian vegetable growers with research and development extension and resources to enhance productivity and profitability. Delivered through 10 national regional extension projects, it promotes industry best practices and fosters stronger relationships among key stakeholders to drive sustainable growth in vegetable production.

The Opportunity:

VegNET, together with vegetablesWA, are seeking a proactive and organised Regional Support Officer (RSO) to support the delivery of regional development initiatives in the vegetable production horticulture sector. This role will assist a Regional Development Officer (RDO) in implementing industry extension programs, stakeholder engagement, communications and administrative project support across regional Western Australia.

This is a dynamic role that requires regular travel to regional areas, working closely with growers, industry stakeholders, and research organisations to enhance Stakeholder Engagement and relationship management, technical extension, information sharing on opportunities, innovation, and new technologies in the sector.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist the Regional Development Officer in implementing regional extension programs and initiatives.

Coordinate and support stakeholder engagement activities, including grower meetings, field days, workshops, and industry events.

Support data collection, reporting, monitoring and evaluation of industry programs and initiatives.

Prepare communication materials such as newsletters, digital media updates, webinars and podcasts, website maintenance.

Manage scheduling, logistics, and administrative tasks to ensure the smooth operation of all regional outreach activities.

Assist in identifying key industry challenges and opportunities through direct engagement with growers and stakeholders.

Provide on-the-ground support for field trials, demonstration sites, and extension projects as required.

Ensure compliance with workplace health and safety regulations and Biosecurity procedures while conducting regional visits.

Build and maintain strong relationships with vegetable growers, industry partners, government agencies, and research organizations.

Engage stakeholders to identify challenges, drive collaboration, and support the adoption of best practices and innovations in vegetable production.

About You:

Qualifications and experience in agriculture, horticulture, natural resource management or regional development.

Strong understanding of agricultural and horticultural issues and current pressures and challenges facing farmers in our sector.

Experience in stakeholder engagement or project management and administrative support.

A willingness to understand and engage with issues and stakeholders in an Agricultural industry association.

Strong communication skills, including report writing, journal articles, digital media management, and event coordination.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and digital communication platforms.

Strong organisational skills with the ability to multitask ability to work independently and proactively.

A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel regionally (a vehicle will be provided for regional travel).

Next Steps

If you are ready to roll up your sleeves and put your stamp on this role, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your professional experience in relation to the role. For enquiries, please contact Katrina Hill (Regional Development Officer) on 0427 373 037.

Closing date: 30 May 2025