Enhance your professional recognition
By Wayne Van Balen FAIH RH0027
Becoming a Registered Horticulturist (RH) enhances your professional recognition, ensuring your experience, qualifications, and expertise are properly valued and rewarded. The program helps horticulturists stay up to date with industry advancements and provides the credentials that employers and clients increasingly seek.
Why Registered Horticulturists Are in Demand
The Australian Institute of Horticulture’s (AIH) RH program has been shaping the profession for over 14 years. Through strong regional networks and national collaboration, AIH has created a respected and growing community of Registered Horticulturists.
RHs are a vital part of AIH, maintaining professional development standards by earning a minimum of 24 CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points over a two-year period. This ensures that members remain at the forefront of industry knowledge and best practices. Full details of the program are available on the AIH website HERE.
A Program Built on Integrity
To uphold high professional standards, RH members log their CPD activities online, with regular audits ensuring accountability. As RH Program Manager, I provide support and guidance to members, helping them stay engaged and informed.
To qualify, participants must have relevant qualifications and experience and hold professional indemnity insurance. The program offers many benefits, including:
- Staying up to date with industry innovations and standards
- Access to a strong professional network and collaboration opportunities
- Recognition as a qualified and responsible industry professional
- Meeting requirements for government, industry, and large-scale projects
- Confidence for clients and contractors in hiring a trusted expert
Many landscape architects, developers, and government projects require the involvement of Registered Horticulturists to certify plant stock quality and ensure compliance with horticultural best practices.
As the peak body for horticulturists in Australia, AIH continues to develop valuable programs that support professionals working across production, amenity, environmental, and government sectors.
Focus on Horticultural Science and Management
RH members gain access to a diverse range of CPD workshops and training in key industry areas, including:
- Plant diversity and biology
- Soil science and plant nutrition
- Pest and disease management
- Water efficiency and environmental sustainability
- Urban greenspace and landscape development
- Food security and sustainable horticulture
RHs play an essential role in shaping Australia’s green spaces, mitigating climate change impacts, managing natural resources, and ensuring food security through best horticultural practices.
Ongoing Professional Development and Events
AIH offers a dynamic calendar of events, including workshops, guest speakers, and networking opportunities. These events allow members to stay informed, develop new skills, and connect with industry leaders.
Take the Next Step in Your Horticulture Career
Becoming a Registered Horticulturist isn’t just about recognition—it’s about staying relevant, expanding your expertise, and opening doors to new opportunities. Join the AIH RH program today and take your horticultural career to the next level!
