The digital divide of the west is a beast of continuing harm to rural communities, providing barriers to work, social lives and personal health. Yet a new inquiry found that improved technologies could cut unskilled workers out of the agriculture and mining workforce, likely worsening the existing workforce crisis. 

The inquiry into technology and the agriculture and mining sectors revealed a lot of what locals already knew, that existing technology is inferior in comparison to our metro counterparts, and continues to put the bush at an economic and lifestyle disadvantage. 

One of the findings of the final report, however, found that as technology evolves, there may be fewer opportunities in agriculture and mining for unskilled workers, who currently make up a core portion of the workforce in those industries. 



According to the NSW Farmers submission to the inquiry, the ageing demographic already means that there are not enough workers in the industry to replace those leaving. 

While the loss of jobs to technology is often viewed as negative, it could become necessary for the industry. 

“Technology can play a role in addressing these concerns both by making agriculture more attractive and by reducing the reliance on workforce where possible,” the NSW Farmers submission stated. 

“Programs that help stimulate innovation, connectivity, communication, and career prosperity while reducing feelings of isolation can significantly increase the number of young people willing to join or stay in agricultural and regional settings,” it continued. 

It’s become clear that what will be needed is adequate training to keep current workers qualified for their role as technology increases, and easy access to that training to make entering the workforce viable for unskilled workers. 

The committee recommended that the NSW Government consult with industry stakeholders to identify existing gaps in education and training, and to design practical and accessible short courses in digital agriculture and mining skills. 

NSW Farmers policy director Kathy Rankin said that implemented correctly, ag tech will help the industry thrive. 

“There needs to be a focus, both government and private, on building entry-level skills for people to move into the workforce but then also to help people transition as they move up into the higher levels,” Ms Rankin said. 

Other findings from the inquiry included a need for technology to adapt to climate change and biosecurity risks, to expand programs that deliver regional connectivity, and to review regulations around data ownership and use when it comes to technology in machinery and equipment.