The Australian Government is investing in building drought resilient leaders through the $5 billion Future Drought Fund (FDF).
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud said 143 mentees and 117 mentors have been selected in round one of the FDF Drought Resilience Leaders mentoring program.
"We are partnering with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) to create a new generation of drought resilient leaders," Minister Littleproud said.
"The mentoring program joins farmers and those with a close connection to agriculture with experienced industry professionals for a chance to learn about drought preparedness from those who have lived and worked through the issue themselves.
"This is just the beginning, as the mentoring program will involve 300 mentees matched with 250 mentors nationally. A network will be developed to bring participants together to continue to share knowledge and experience.
"I encourage any interested farmers and those employed in the agricultural sector to contact ARLF to find out how they can get involved.
"And you don't need to be a part of the program to be involved. There are also a series of webinars to June 2022 with a focus on drought and climate, supporting resilience on farms and communities. The next webinar is on 18 November 2021 around 'why there is a place for everyone in ag'.
"The Australian Government is fostering a new generation of young and emerging leaders and encouraging learning and knowledge sharing to the benefit of Australian agriculture and the communities and livelihoods that depend on it."
