Time to sign up for women’s ag leadership program

APPLICATIONS have opened for a Victorian Government program aimed at helping women in agriculture claim their space in leadership roles.

Twenty women from across the state will have the chance to participate in the Victorian Rural Women’s Network’s 2024 Leadership and Mentoring Program.

The aim of the effort is to increase the representation of women in agricultural leadership roles through specialised mentorship and leadership training.

Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins said the program covers a range of things, from government and private sector decision making to setting career advancement goals.

“The program is a fantastic opportunity for women in agriculture to invest in their careers, expand their networks, and contribute to a more inclusive, representative, and innovative industry landscape,” she said.

All study, accommodation, childcare, and travel costs will be covered for the successful applicants.

Rural Women’s Network’s Leader program alumni Libbe Paton encouraged women thinking of applying to take the leap.

“The leadership and mentoring program encouraged me to be brave and know my value and strengths, with each session allowing us to enhance what we knew, gain new ideas and grow in a safe environment,” she said.

“If you’re considering an application, then you are already thinking about what you could learn and where the program could take your leadership – you should definitely apply.”

To learn more about the program or apply visit agriculture.vic.gov.au

Digital Editions


  • Ricegrowers backs review

    Ricegrowers backs review

    The Ricegrowers’ Association has welcomed the start of a 12‑week consultation on the Murray–Darling Basin Plan Review. RGA president Peter Herrmann said industry would take…

More News

  • Big crop predicted for almonds

    Big crop predicted for almonds

    The almond harvest is underway and 2026 could produce Australia’s largest almond crop. Nationally it’s estimated that almost 167 thousand tonnes will be harvested this year. That’s a seven per…

  • The calm before the storm

    The calm before the storm

    We appear to be bogged down in a rut, with the commissioning of our new plant. I was super frustrated a couple of months ago – at the spanner throwing,…

  • Backpacking paves the way to leadership

    Backpacking paves the way to leadership

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 531373 SUNRAYSIA’s summer harvest attracts travellers on working holidays from all over the world, particularly Europe. These workers perform a vital service for regional…

  • Warm weather set to continue

    Warm weather set to continue

    BARLEY prices are supported as drought speculation builds, with growers holding onto grain for livestock feed. The Bureau of Meteorology January drought statement showed below-average rainfall for much of Victoria…

  • Growers warn of fallout from visa cuts

    Growers warn of fallout from visa cuts

    UNPICKED crops, decimated rural communities and higher supermarket prices are among the consequences that could unfold if One Nation’s anti-immigration policy were to be implemented, farmers and experts have warned.…

  • Grape harvest underway

    Grape harvest underway

    Harvest has begun with our first loads of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. Reports of lower yields following the ongoing heat are common, although with the worldwide oversupply of wine, this…

  • Grant strengthens cattle and red meat industry

    Grant strengthens cattle and red meat industry

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 528596 Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) in partnership with industry peak bodies, has secured a grant from the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations to…

  • Safety a priority

    Safety a priority

    EVERY farmer deserves to come home safely at the end of the day. That is the message at the heart of a new statewide campaign urging Victorian farmers to see…

  • Golden opportunity for future

    Golden opportunity for future

    THE Victorian Farmers Federation has called on the State Government to make strategic investments in agriculture, saying smarter policy and targeted funding in seven priority areas could supercharge the industry…

  • New initiative for soil diseases

    New initiative for soil diseases

    THE Grains Research and Development Corporation has recently launched a new initiative aimed at addressing economic strain from soilborne crop diseases. The Soil-Borne Disease Initiative is a five-year program that…