The Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program is committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector. This unique initiative connects and empowers leaders to elevate their careers, expand their networks, and drive meaningful change within the industry.
Focused on preparing participants for senior leadership, the program is tailored to suit the unique needs and schedules of those committed to driving positive change. Each year, a select group of 12 participants is welcomed, allowing for a personalised experience that hones individual strengths, supports career aspirations, and addresses key challenges in agriculture.
Applications for the next cohort open in February 2027.
Designed to support the NFF’s goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks and to make agriculture an inclusive industry for all by 2030, this program offers unique opportunities and new experiences for women who are looking to take their leadership to the next level.
The program is open to women in Australia who are looking for the next step in their leadership journey and have a vested interest in the Australian agricultural sector. We welcome applicants from across all parts of the agricultural sector who are ready to make a difference.
Applications will be hosted through our website, and we are committed to making the process accessible and inclusive for everyone. We’re here to provide assistance and ensure your application experience is smooth and supportive. If you have any challenges with writing or have any other needs, please reach out.
This program wouldn’t be possible without the support of partners and their commitment to making meaningful change in representation across Australian agriculture. The NFF celebrates the most recent pledges and progress reports from our program partners.
If your organisation is interested in becoming a partner please reach out to Program Manager, Bec Wilde, (e) rwilde@nff.org.au
The NFF recognises that diversity is more than gender. Diversity includes ethnicity, cultural identity, religion, disability, gender expression and identity, sexual orientation, education, socioeconomic background and more. We encourage women of all backgrounds to apply for the program.
Fiona Simson is a visionary leader shaping the future of agriculture. A farmer from the Liverpool Plains, Fiona was elected in 2016 as the first female President of the National Farmers’ Federation in it’s 40 year history.
Driven by a passion to create more opportunities for women in agriculture, Fiona spearheaded the launch of the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program in 2018 with a vision to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks.
In 2022, Fiona stepped into the role of Patron. In this capacity, she provides strategic guidance to the program and is a champion for inclusion and diversity in agriculture.
Fiona represents Australian farmers on the global stage as Vice President of the World Farmers’ Organisation for Oceania. She is also the Chair of the Commission for International Agricultural Research.
The NFF’s Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program is building an alumni of skilled female leaders from across the country. The alumni consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills sets, all with one thing in common – a vision for agriculture and a commitment to being a part of the sector’s growth. Graduates of the program have called the experience ‘life changing’. Explore the vibrant alumni community below.
