The Northern Territory finalists for the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award have been announced ahead of an official awards ceremony on 16 April 2026 at Parliament House.
This year's four Northern Territory finalists are Kelly Shotton, Claire Maradani, Adriana Dent and Anita Synnott.
The winner receives a $15,000 Westpac grant plus professional development and access to the national alumni.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing support for the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, recognising the vital contribution women make to our agricultural industries, emerging businesses and regional communities.
The 2026 finalists highlight the strength of Territory leadership, with each woman delivering practical solutions, creating opportunities and strengthening regional communities.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the award shines a light on women who are getting results on the ground.
"These finalists are tackling real challenges across the Territory and turning ideas into outcomes that support jobs, industry and community," Mr Maley said.
"They represent the innovation and determination that is driving our agriculture sector forward and building a stronger Territory."
"Backing the Rural Women's Award is part of our commitment to supporting local leaders, growing industry and delivering opportunities across regional and remote communities."
The four 2026 Northern Territory finalists are Kelly Shotton, Claire Maradani, Adriana Dent and Anita Synnott.
Kelly Shotton is the founder of BoreWatch, an agtech platform helping pastoral properties track and improve water point management. Drawing on years of hands‑on station work and aviation experience, Kelly has created a practical, low‑cost reporting tool that strengthens long‑term water planning and supports better outcomes for livestock, people and the land.
Claire Maradani, leadership coach and founder of social enterprise Global Pathways, works with agribusiness and regional employers to build stable, skilled rural workforces. Her programs support migrant workers and regional industries through leadership development, cultural capability and tailored settlement support, strengthening community resilience and long‑term retention.
Adriana Dent, founder of Printed NT Fashion Hub and designer behind label Albertini, is building local skills and training pathways in fashion and garment production. Her community‑driven social enterprise provides hands‑on training and employment opportunities - particularly for Aboriginal women, migrants and women returning to work - keeping creative skills and economic value in the Territory.
Anita Synnott, entrepreneur and founder of Natural Territory, leads an award‑winning business focused on simple, science‑backed skincare. After developing a world‑first application method - the Simplicity Code - Anita now supports rural women through education, transparency and Australian‑made products, with a community of more than 100,000 customers.
Jennifer Galloway, General Manager, Workforce, Communications and Adoption, AgriFutures Australia said the four Northern Territory finalists of the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award are leading with innovation, vision and determination to create meaningful change across rural Australia.
"They show how leadership can turn ideas into outcomes that strengthen rural industries, grow businesses and build resilient communities," Ms Galloway said.
"The Award goes beyond recognition, providing women with funding, professional development and national networks to scale their ideas and deliver lasting economic, social and environmental impacts. By supporting these women, AgriFutures is investing in the future of rural Australia, a future shaped by bold leaders driving positive change for generations to come.'
The Northern Territory winner will be announced at Parliament House on 16 April 2026 and will go on to represent the Territory at the national awards in August.
