Applications now open for 2020 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program

Applications are now open for the National Farmers’
Federation 2020 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.

In its third year, the Program offers a one-on-one
mentoring opportunity for women 25 years and over, who wish to pursue leadership
roles within the sector.

Over five months, selected applicants are given the
opportunity to define and plan their leadership aspirations with the guidance
of a dedicated mentor.

Fiona Simson, the first female President of the NFF in
its 40-year history, said the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, #EachforEqual,
was apt.

“In 2020, women
make up more than 50% of agricultural tertiary enrolments and on farm women are
at the forefront of the adoption of ag-tech and innovation.

“Yet women continue to be under-represented in the senior
levels of our industry.

The 2030 Roadmap, NFF’s plan for agriculture to be a $100 billion industry by 2030, details a target to double the number of women in leadership positions by 2030.

NFF President Fiona Simson

“Through this program and together with the industry, the
NFF is determined to meet this goal.”

The 2019 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program graduates with NFF

President Fiona Simson. From left: Jacqui Cannon QLD, Leonie O’Driscoll NSW, Kelly Pearce WA, Robbie Davis SA, Linda Lee NT, Rachel Carson VIC, NFF President Fiona Simson, Allison Harker NSW, Natalie Sommerville SA, Alison Southwell NSW and

Cath Oates WA.

Graduates from the 2018 and 2019 Diversity in Agriculture
Leadership Programs, are now part of a skilled and passionate alumni.

Western Australian wine maker Cath Oates and 2019 DiALP
graduate said the opportunity was ‘life changing’:

“Taking part in the program was the professional highlight of my 2019, it was a unique and special opportunity to meet such an inspiring group of women, both the mentees and mentors.

Cath Oates, Oates End, Wilyabrup, Western Australia – Photograph by David Dare Parker

Broadacre farmer and agribusiness professional Leonie O’Driscoll,
NSW, agreed:

Through the program I had the opportunity to listen to and work with experienced, likeminded, passionate women from different sectors and from all over the country. The relationships developed during the program continue today.

“I now have a heightened understanding of my strengths and have a clear plan forward -professionally and personally.”

Leonie O’Driscoll, Marra, New South Wales

The NFF is joined by government and leading
representative bodies in the Program, all who have committed to making
meaningful change on gender diversity within the leadership ranks of their
organisations.

Our Program Partners, like the NFF, are steadfast on the importance of ensuring women have a voice in the decisions that will shape our sector. The Program just would not be possible without them.” Ms Simson said.

NFF President Fiona Simson

Applications for the 2020 Diversity in Agriculture
Leadership Program close 31 March.

Selected participants come together in
Canberra during May for a two-day retreat and graduate at a breakfast at the
NFF’s National Conference in October.

/Public Release. View in full here.