Workforce Webinar Series - Practical workforce management for agricultural employers

Your people are one of the most important investments in your business. From recruitment and retention through to workplace compliance and leadership, workforce decisions can have a direct impact on productivity, profitability and business resilience.

Join the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and Sparke Helmore Lawyers for a practical three-part webinar series that will provide agricultural employers with clear, actionable guidance to help build capable teams, manage workplace obligations and navigate workforce challenges with confidence.

Participants will have the opportunity to hear directly from workplace law specialist Thea Price from Sparke Helmore Lawyers.

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Webinar 1: Employing People - Getting the Foundations Right

Wednesday 11 November 2026 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Employing and managing people is a critical part of running a successful agricultural business. Getting the foundations right from the outset can help employers create clear expectations, build productive workplaces and avoid common employment issues.

This session will explore the key building blocks of effective workforce management, including different employment arrangements, employment contracts, workplace policies and employer responsibilities. Attendees will gain practical insights into common mistakes made by employers and learn how to establish workforce practices that support both compliance and business performance.

Topics will include:

• Understanding different types of employment arrangements

• Employment contracts and workplace expectations

• Policies and procedures that support good workforce management

• Common employment pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Practical tips for agricultural employers

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Webinar 2: Managing Workforce Risk - What Every Employer Needs to Know

Wednesday 18 November 2026 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Workplace obligations continue to evolve, creating new responsibilities and potential risks for employers. Understanding these obligations and taking a proactive approach to workforce management can help businesses reduce risk and respond confidently to workplace issues when they arise.

This session will provide an overview of key employer responsibilities and emerging workplace issues relevant to agricultural businesses. Participants will hear practical guidance on identifying workplace risks, meeting compliance obligations and implementing processes that support a safe and productive workplace.

Topics will include:

• Key employment and workplace obligations

• Managing workplace risk and compliance requirements

• Responding to common workforce issues

• Emerging workplace trends and employer responsibilities

• Practical risk management strategies for agricultural businesses

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Webinar 3: Building and Retaining a Productive Workforce

Wednesday 25 November 2026 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Attracting and retaining good people remains a priority for many agricultural businesses. Creating a workplace where employees feel supported, engaged and valued can improve retention, productivity and long-term business outcomes.

This session will explore the role of leadership, workplace culture and employee engagement in building a productive workforce. Participants will gain practical ideas and strategies to support employee retention, strengthen workplace capability and position their business for future workforce needs.

Topics will include:

• Workforce attraction and retention strategies

• Building positive workplace culture

• Leadership and communication considerations

• Supporting workforce capability and development

• Planning for future workforce needs

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This webinar series is being delivered as part of the Industry Skills and Jobs Advisor Program and the Industry Workforce Advisor Program, supported and funded by the Queensland Government.

Content for the Webinar Series has been prepared by Sparke Helmore Lawyers.