Twelve ambitious women have been welcomed into the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.
The program directly addresses the under representation of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks, through targeted mentoring and networking.
NFF CEO and former program mentor, Mike Guerin, congratulated the 2026 cohort.
“We are so excited to see these talented women thrive in this flagship program,” Mr Guerin said.
“The NFF has set a goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks by 2030.
“These 12 women are already assets to the agriculture industry, and, commendably, they’ve now committed to growing their leadership skills even further.
“Furthermore, the program’s success is made possible through the support of 22 partners who commit to making meaningful change to diversity in their workplaces.”
2026 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership cohort:
– Dr. Renata Grunennvaldt, Towen Mountain, QLD
– Sam Pritchard, Southbank, VIC
– Toni Nugent, Wagga Wagga, NSW
– Kylie Stretton, Basalt, QLD
– Susan King, Katherine, NT
– Roya Khalil, Caulfeild North, VIC
– Sam Baldock, Spreyton, TAS
– Julie Petty, Mt Walker, QLD
– Kathleen Allan, Bowning, NSW
– Stacey Rae, Monto, QLD
– Amy Richards, Aldinga Beach, SA
– Sam Dobson, Whitemore, TAS
The cohort will take part in a three-day leadership retreat in Canberra, be matched with an industry-leading mentor, and work towards personal and professional goals under the guidance of the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership team.
Roya Khalil, part of this year’s cohort, said she was thrilled to be part of a program that’s leading the equality charge.
“I firmly believe that diversity is essential to making [agriculture] stronger, more productive, innovative, inclusive, and resilient.”
Fellow participant Kathleen Allen said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside and connect with other women who are helping shape the future of Australian agriculture.”
For more information, visit the Diversity in Agricultural Leadership website.
Ashleigh Whittaker
Stacey Davidson