The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), with the assistance of Telstra, mentored the next generation of agricultural leaders through a three-day intensive leadership “bootcamp.”
Six participants from across Australia travelled to the nation’s capital for a leadership forum where they learned about the workings of the Parliament, including meeting Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain, Assistant Minister Andrew Leigh, and Agriculture Minister Murray Watt.
The participants also heard from NFF leadership, met with key figures from the public service and the private sector, visited the Press Gallery, and participated in media training.
According to NFF President Fiona Simson, it is critical for the NFF to assist and guide future leaders. After meeting with the group, she believes the future of agriculture is in excellent hands.
“We want the next generation of changemakers to be equipped with the skills and confidence to understand what makes effective advocacy, so our industry is never left behind,” Simson said.
She also highlighted their goal for the agriculture sector, which is to become the next $100 billion industry, noting the only way to reach that goal is with new ideas and new perspectives, and this program will help them deliver on that.
Participant Kate McLachlan from South Australia stated the program had given her great insight into the work of the NFF and how to represent Australian farmers better.
“Seeing the ins and outs of Parliament, the press gallery and ministerial offices has really helped me understand the nature of being an advocate for agriculture,” she said.
The annual National Agricultural Leadership Program consists of four components: a Leadership Forum that exposes participants to policy, advocacy, the parliamentary process, and government; a Policy Project that provides participants with hands-on experience developing and advocating policy; a mentoring program; and an inspiring speakers webinar series.
