About

An Agricultural College With A Difference

 

Australian agriculture is an industry worth more than $155 billion to the national economy and contributes an average of 12% to gross domestic product. It is also an industry on the move; growing at 2.8% annually and leading Australia’s productivity push. As the sector grows, the need for high-quality, industry-led, innovative training of its future workforce is imperative.

For 30 years, Rural Industries Skill Training has been recognised as one of Australia’s leading independent agricultural colleges delivering vocational education and training. Since its establishment in 1992, RIST has graduated 18,200 students and delivered more than 3 million hours of training.

RIST has a philosophy of developing critical thinking skills that produce adaptable, resilient, resourceful and technologically competent students who can think for themselves and show initiative in the workplace. 

RIST delivers outcomes to students and industry alike through collaboration, partnerships, innovative training measures, organisational integrity and a thorough understanding of market opportunities and needs.

Comprehensive Course Offerings

RIST students can pursue meaningful, sustainable agricultural careers through a comprehensive program offering that extends from school-based traineeships, Certificate II through IV level qualifications and higher qualifications such as the Diploma or Bachelor of Agriculture. We also offer the opportunity for participants to upskill with our Short courses.

 

Short course training opportunities offered throughout the year, across all States, develop skill sets and knowledge in a range of areas as identified in conjunction with RIST’s industry partners. 

 

AWI and RIST Lifetime Ewe Management program is being delivered nationally and reaching over 25% of the ewe flock of Australia. This course is financially supported by Australian Wool Innovation and is focused on productivity and animal welfare improvements in the wool and sheep industry. Heifers for Profit & Weaners for Profit our most recent additions to our national programs have also had great success.

 

RIST’s unique approach to learning focuses on engagement and support to improve the skills uptake of our students. Its training within real life workplaces offers convenience for both students and employers alike: students are able to learn and upskill in their similar environments to their workplace, or move seamlessly into the workforce with the support of employers engaged in their training.

 

Leadership & Support

Led by a highly qualified and skilled Board charged with policy creation, planning and strategic development.

 

RIST employs a team of staff that work remotely and on-site at the Hamilton Campus and a network of industry expert trainers, with local, grassroots knowledge across a broad range of commodities and services, tasked with providing personal, tailored training and guidance to our students. 

RIST is proud to offer an innovative approach to learning for our students, with leading e-learning and student management platforms, use of advanced technology within our classrooms including interactive smart boards, iPads, Laptop computers, wi-fi connectivity, virtual library facilities and simulators that are integrated into our modern, purpose built facilities and workplace environments to give students a competitive edge in the jobs market.