Seeking emerging leaders in the Ag industry

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) proudly launches applications for its flagship leadership and capability development program for young and emerging leaders in Australian agriculture.

The National Agricultural Leadership Program provides targeted activities and unique experiences in leadership, advocacy, policy development, governance, communications and media.

It uses a whole-of-agriculture perspective to build networks across the industry and create the next generation of leaders for Australian agriculture.

Targeting participants under 35, the program provides a unique opportunity for emerging leaders to develop a policy project guided by NFF general managers and senior industry leaders.

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NFF President David Jochinke highlighted the opportunities the program produces for those interested in the decision-making process and policy development in the agricultural industry. 

“Participants can tour Australian Parliament House and meet with federal politicians and government departments,” Mr Jochinke said.

“By fostering a young person's interest in advocacy, we can showcase the next generation to our political leaders and develop a network of skilled professionals to lead our industry into the future.”

Launched in 2021, the program has a proud alumni base of 20 graduates. 2023 alumnus Abbey O’Callaghan has used the experience to develop a policy that compliments her passion for strengthening the agricultural workforce.

“The National Agricultural Leadership Program was a fantastic opportunity for a behind-the-scenes look at how policy decisions are made, best practice approaches to advocacy and the development of policies,” Ms O’Callaghan said.

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“My policy project was all about attracting people from non-traditional backgrounds to the agricultural workforce – which has been highly relevant and valuable in my role as Manager, Workforce Delivery at AgriFutures Australia.”

The program will run for five months starting in July 2024. Participants will come together for a three-day advocacy retreat in Canberra, work on a policy project, and are matched with an industry leader as part of an ongoing mentoring program.

The program is free for all participants, supported by an NFF member organisation, and supports long-term development and learning.

Applications are open until June 3, 2024. Find out more here nff.org.au/nalp/