Federated Farmers want more formal training programmes for farm workers.

They say they're in need of experienced workers but there's a real shortage of training courses.

Farmers are seemingly unwilling to take inexperienced workers but are still in desperate need of staff.

Federated Farmers tertiary education spokesman Chris Lewis told Mike Hosking it's not fair other university courses get more funding.

He says there's a big difference in funding for a farming course and an arts degree.

"The big reason really is a lack of funding. Some of these courses get around $10,000 per student, yet someone who goes to university to complete an Arts degree can get $24,000."

Lewis says having the right attitude, while also having some sort of training is necessary to work on a farm which can be a stressful environment.

"Hiring young students is a high risk, but employers are willing to take them if they've had some training."