- Nominations now open for the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award
- Women making a difference in rural and regional Western Australia are encouraged to apply
Nominations are now open for the prestigious 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, which celebrates the leadership of women across industry, business and community.
Women living, working and making a difference across regional and rural Western Australia are encouraged to nominate for the State award.
The winner receives a $15,000 bursary for their project, business or program, and access to professional development opportunities and alumni networks.
Kimberley pastoralist Isabella Thrupp is the 2025 WA award recipient, recognised as a young innovator whose experience on northern cattle stations inspired her burgeoning fashion business.
Ms Thrupp is using the award to explore Australian-made clothing research and development, particularly cotton and wool fabric blends, and will represent WA at the national awards in October.
Applications for the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women's Awardclose on 7 November 2025.
The WA award is supported by AgriFutures Australia, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Westpac and CBH Group.
More awards information is available from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website www.dpird.wa.gov.au/regional-communities/agrifutures-rural-womens-award
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The AgriFutures Rural Women's Award celebrates the leadership and passion of women who are driving important outcomes across rural industries, businesses and communities.
"Winning the award is not only a recognition of the individual, it is a win for your region, your organisation and your community."
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and shine a light on the incredible work women are doing across rural and regional Western Australia.
"I encourage WA women in our primary industries and other rural industries who want to take their work or project to the next level, and join an extensive alumni network across Australia, to consider putting their hand up for next year's award."
As stated by Women Minister Simone McGurk:
"This award highlights the impressive network of women across regional Western Australia who are benefiting their communities and industries through their skills, commitment and ingenuity.
"For those who are still in the project development phase, they can also consider the Rural Women's Acceleration Grant which can provide a $7,000 bursary to bring their vision to life."
