McDonald's and Leading Suppliers Launch Inaugural Agri Grad Program

12 August 2026:  McDonald’s Australia has partnered with leading suppliers Ingham’s, McCain Foods and Turosi to launch its inaugural Arches Agri Grad Program, a new initiative designed to help strengthen the future workforce of Australian agriculture.

As one of Australia’s largest employers of young people and a major supporter of Australian agriculture, McDonald’s is uniquely placed to invest in the future of the industry and the people behind it.   

The program will provide three recent agriculture graduates with the opportunity to launch their careers with some of Australia’s leading food producers, gaining exposure to the farm-to-fork supply chain that helps supply McDonald’s restaurants across the country.

Successful applicants will be employed by one of the program’s supplier partners for a minimum of 18 months, gaining hands-on experience, mentoring from industry leaders, professional development, access to McDonald’s-only supplier events and the opportunity to help tackle real challenges facing the Australian agriculture.

Applications are now open to Australians aged 18 and over who have completed a relevant agricultural degree between 2021 and 2026, with three graduate positions available.

Jeanelle Boyce, Director of Supply Chain, McDonald’s Australia, said the program was designed to create meaningful pathways into agriculture while supporting the long-term resilience of the sector.

“Australian agriculture has a strong future, but like many other industries, attracting and developing the next generation of talent is critical.

“As a business that works closely with Australian farmers and suppliers every day, we’re proud to partner with our suppliers to create another pathway for graduates to build meaningful careers in the sector.

“The Arches Agri Grad Program gives graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience, build industry connections, and contribute fresh thinking to some of the challenges facing Australian agriculture.”

For more than 50 years, McDonald’s has worked alongside Australian farmers and suppliers to source the ingredients behind its menu. Today, more than 90% of the produce and products served in McDonald’s restaurants are sourced locally, supporting thousands of farmers across the country.

Josh Opas, McCain Foods’ Agriculture Director ANZ, said, “McCain has been in Australia for more than 50-years and we’re proud to partner with McDonald’s on a program that will help shape the next generation of leaders in the food industry.

“The Arches Agri Grad Program gives agriculture graduates an opportunity to work across our business in manufacturing, supply chain, agriculture, engineering, R&D and commercial operations and to gain real understanding of how we produce the world’s best fries.

“We know this program will provide great experience and insight and it will develop capabilities for our business, our partners and the industry.”

How to apply 

Arches Agri Grad Program applicants will need to complete an application form and submit information including:

• CV outlining relevant education and work experience

• A Golden Idea addressing a challenge facing the agricultural sector

• Employment preferences and education history 

Applications are open until midnight (AEST) 8 October 2026. For more information and application details, visit www.mcdonalds.com/arches-agri