An innovative training program based on the Rural Extension Centre's Certificate in Extension has paid dividends in developing the extension staff of the Northern Territory Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries (NTDPIF). The program introduced after a department-wide review of needs and in the midst of a changing organisational background has successfully provided staff with training in extension, learning projects for immediate application and career options within NTDPIF and beyond.

The participants in the program recognised its immediate worth, as did their managers and supervisors (Sullivan et al 1997). Additionally, a group of the course participants were involved in the evaluation of the on-ground effectiveness of emergency services during and after the Katherine floods, using skills and knowledge gained through the training program.

The paper outlines the reasons and need for the training, the underlying philosophy of the training conducted, the process and content involved and an assessment of its success for the individuals and for the organisation. Recommendations are made for the future of the program and for the continued and wider use of the program both in the NTDPIF and other government bodies in the Northern Territory.