CourseFinder logo – Australia’s leading course comparison site

How to Become an Agricultural Economist: Australian Careers in Agriculture

0 Course

On this page

What is a Agricultural Economist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Agricultural Economist?

An Agricultural Economist uses economic principles to analyse agriculture, food systems, and natural resource use. They help farmers, businesses, and governments make better decisions about production, land use, and food policy. This role sits at the heart of Australia’s agricultural sector.

Day to day, they collect and analyse data on crop prices, market trends, and the cost of farming. They study how government policies affect farm incomes and food prices. They also model the economic impact of climate change and new technologies.

Common tasks include writing research reports, giving advice on agricultural policy, and running cost-benefit analyses. Agricultural Economists often work with scientists, land managers, and policymakers. They present findings to a range of audiences, from farmers to senior government officials.

Demand for Agricultural Economists is strong. Roles are available in government agencies such as ABARES, state departments of primary industry, universities, and private consulting firms. Those who thrive here combine sharp analytical skills with a genuine interest in agriculture and the environment.

Icon

Career snapshots For Agricultural Economists

Agricultural Economists in Australia mostly work full-time. About 91% of people in economics roles work full-time hours (Your Career, 2025). The average pay for an Agricultural Economist in Australia is around $131,000 per year (SalaryExpert, 2026). Entry-level roles start at about $93,000, while senior roles can reach $151,000. The role falls under the Economist job group. This group has about 4,200 workers in Australia and a very strong job outlook (Your Career, 2025).

Agricultural Economists most often work for government bodies, research groups, universities, and farm business firms. Key public sector employers include ABARES and state primary industry departments. The standard entry degree is a bachelor in economics, agricultural economics, or agricultural science. Many people in this field also hold a postgraduate degree.

What will I do?

Agricultural Economists use economics to tackle food production, land use, and rural life. They work across government, research, and industry to make farming more efficient and profitable. The role mixes desk research with direct contact with farmers, policymakers, and industry groups.

  • Data Analysis – Gathering data on farm output, prices, and market trends to guide decisions.
  • Policy Development – Helping design farm policies that boost land use, farm profits, and rural wellbeing.
  • Market Research – Studying supply and demand for farm products to find market chances and risks.
  • Economic Modelling – Building models to forecast how climate change, trade shifts, or new tech affect farm incomes.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis – Checking the economic case for farm projects, irrigation schemes, or new farming methods.
  • Advisory Services – Guiding farmers and farm businesses on financial planning, risk, and best practice.
  • Research and Reporting – Writing reports on farm economics for government bodies, industry groups, and journals.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration – Working with scientists, land managers, and officials to find practical solutions.

What skills do I need?

A career as an Agricultural Economist calls for a blend of technical and communication skills. Strong analytical ability is essential, as the role involves interpreting complex data on farm productivity, market trends, and policy impacts. Proficiency in statistical software and economic modelling tools is a key part of the day-to-day work.

Equally important is the ability to communicate clearly. Agricultural Economists must translate complex findings into plain language for farmers, policymakers, and the public. Strong writing skills and attention to detail are valued. The ability to work with a range of stakeholders is also key to success in this field.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong analytical and quantitative skills
  • Proficiency in statistical and econometric methods
  • Knowledge of agricultural production systems
  • Understanding of environmental and resource economics
  • Ability to collect, interpret, and present data
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Policy analysis and research skills
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Teamwork and stakeholder engagement
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability to changing markets and conditions
  • Understanding of rural and regional development issues
  • Knowledge of economic modelling tools
  • Ability to work across disciplines

CourseFinder makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!

Related Careers

About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.