Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program
Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program
Building leadership capability for a thriving agribusiness industry
Become an agribusiness change maker
The Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program (AALP) is designed to foster cross-sectoral collaboration, focusing on the development of both individual and collective change. The program helps foster an adaptive leadership style combining current adult education and development principles with relevancy to the Australian agribusiness sector.
Participant Information
This program is designed to foster cross-sectoral collaboration. Focusing on the development of both individual and collective change, the program helps foster an adaptive leadership style. We combine current adult education and development principles with relevancy to the Australian agribusiness sector. You’ll be challenged to respond to complex, real-world scenarios that face the sector, all in a collaborative and supportive environment.These challenges will help you develop greater self-awareness. You’ll create a deep sense of trust amongst your group, encouraging you to learn from others while creating inter-organisational connections.
The Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program creates diverse networks of leaders across the sector. This network gives you the connections and the support you need to lead change and act on challenges and opportunities – like transforming a business or generating serious social impact.
Designed for Agribusiness professionals
11 days over 2 sessions, plus travel to and from the program location.
Delivered face-to-face in a residential program setting.
Session 1: 14th – 19th March 2027 – Canberra
Session 2: 30th May – 4th June 2027 – Toowoomba
There are two ways to take part in the program.
Be nominated by an organisation or sponsor:
Many participants are sponsored by employers, industry organisations, community groups or funding partners who want to invest in emerging leadership capability.
If your organisation supports professional development or leadership growth, consider speaking with them about sponsoring your place in the program.
Self-fund your participation:
Individuals can also choose to fund their own participation in AALP.
Many participants see the program as a valuable investment in their personal growth, leadership capability and future contribution to their workplace, industry or community.
If you are ready to challenge yourself, build lasting networks and grow your confidence as a leader, AALP may be the right next step for you.
Program cost:
Program fee: $15,510
Participant contribution: $220
Places on the AALP can either be funded by agribusiness employers or participants.
Creating a thriving agribusiness industry, starting with the great leadership
Scholarships Available
GRDC Grains Industry Scholarship
Matilda Ferguson Scholarship
Sponsor Information
Australia’s agribusiness sector operates in an increasingly complex environment shaped by changing markets, technology, workforce challenges, community expectations and environmental pressures. Addressing these challenges requires leaders who can think beyond organisational boundaries and work collaboratively for the future of the sector.
The AALP exists to develop leaders who can navigate complexity, influence change and create positive impact across agribusiness. Through deep self-awareness, adaptive leadership development and cross-sector connection, participants gain the capability to lead with confidence in an evolving industry.
The program brings together professionals from across the agribusiness value chain, creating a network of leaders committed to strengthening Australia’s agricultural future.
Sponsoring a participant is an investment in both individual growth and the future capability of your organisation.
The AALP helps participants develop the leadership skills, self-awareness and strategic perspective needed to drive change in a complex operating environment. Participants return with greater confidence, stronger communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Beyond individual development, sponsors gain leaders who can identify opportunities, strengthen collaboration and contribute to long-term organisational success while helping shape a stronger agribusiness sector.
Participants often return with a broader perspective on industry challenges and opportunities, along with increased confidence to influence, collaborate and lead change.
Many sponsors report benefits including stronger leadership capability, improved problem-solving, enhanced stakeholder engagement and greater readiness for future leadership responsibilities.
Sponsors also become part of a wider network of organisations committed to developing leadership across Australia’s agribusiness sector and investing in its long-term sustainability and success
You can nominate employees, future leaders, high-potential team members or individuals connected to your organisation who demonstrate the capacity and commitment to make a positive contribution to the agribusiness sector.
The program is designed for professionals from across the agribusiness value chain, creating a diverse cohort that reflects the breadth and interconnected nature of the industry.
Once a participant is nominated, the ARLF team will guide them through the onboarding process and prepare them for the program experience.
Sponsoring a participant is simple and our team will support you through the process.
Book a place for your nominated participant
If you already know who you would like to sponsor, use the booking form below to reserve a place in the program for your nominated participant.
Once submitted, our team will guide you and your participant through the next steps, including onboarding and program preparation.
Talk to our team
If you would like to discuss the program, sponsorship costs or whether TRAIL is the right fit for your organisation or community, you can book a time to speak with our team via the booking form.
We are happy to answer questions and help you explore the best option for your participant.
The impact of the Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program extends far beyond the program itself.
Participants gain the skills, confidence and networks to lead change within their organisations and across the wider agribusiness sector. They develop a deeper understanding of themselves, strengthen their ability to work across differences and take a more strategic view of the challenges and opportunities facing Australian agriculture.
Through a growing alumni network, participants continue to collaborate, share knowledge and contribute to a stronger, more resilient and innovative agribusiness industry long after the program concludes.
Hear From Our Alumni
Reflections from those who have experienced the journey
Join Our Partners
We’re proud to partner with organisations that help grow the next generation of rural leaders through the TRAIL Emerging Leaders Program.
Interested in finding out more?
Places on this program are either nominated by sponsoring organisations or available to self-funded participants.
Fill in the form below to find out more.
Want to recommend this program to someone? Go to our Shoulder Tap.
Frequently asked questions
If you have a question, you might find the answer below. If we haven’t answered it, our friendly team is happy to chat with you. Get in touch via email or give us a call on (02) 6281 0680.
A place on the program costs $15,510 plus a $220 participant contribution. A place in the program can either be funded by an agribusiness sponsoring an employee or a participant themselves. Participants may also need to cover some travel or incidental costs. More information on this is provided after the selection process.
Of course. If you work in the agribusiness sector, asking your employer to fund your place is a great professional development opportunity.
Here are some tips for when you ask your employer to support you:
Each organisation has different processes or policies regarding employee development and training. You can usually find this information in your employee handbook or intranet, or you can contact your human resources (HR) team.
For smaller organisations, this may be just a conversation with your direct manager.
Speak with your manager about your career and leadership journey. Leadership development is different for everyone and requires an adaptive learning approach.
By talking to your manager about your career path and areas for development, you can begin the conversation on how to achieve your goals and what is best for your organisation.
Sometimes you just need to ask the question. This may be in an email or in person. To assist you in asking the question, we have prepared an example email below for you to send to the decision maker.
Hi <insert name>,
I’m emailing you as I’d like to discuss my career and leadership development within our organisation. I would like to develop my leadership capabilities and my networks within the agribusiness sector by undertaking a leadership program.
One opportunity I have identified is the Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program. It is a bespoke leadership development program for the agribusiness sector, in particular agribusiness leaders, who wish to increase their impact in the businesses and communities in which they live and work.
The 11-day program initiates structured pathways for future leadership development and offers access to a diverse, national alumni network of over 2000 rural, regional and remote leaders.
The dates and locations are:
– INSERT SESSION DATE
The program is an opportunity for me to meet and learn with influential agribusiness leaders and examine the complexity, challenges and opportunities for the Australian agribusiness sector. I would also build connections across a supportive network of leaders across the breadth of the sector.
The cost of the AALP is $15,510+ GST. I would pay the participant contribution of $220+ GST.
As the registration deadline for the program is INSERT DATE, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further with you at your earliest convenience.
Kind regards,
<insert name>.
If you would like us to contact your organisation directly, please contact us.
Yes, it may. Our programs are intentionally designed to foster deep learning, resilience, and growth by including elements of challenge and uncertainty. These experiences are created with inclusivity in mind, ensuring a safe space to navigate discomfort. The uncertainty is deliberate—it mimics the unpredictable challenges leaders often face, helping you develop the skills to adapt and thrive in the face of the unknown.
Your safety is paramount, and we hope you will not get sick or injured. We do have first aid officers on all programs to assist in an emergency. Should you contract COVID, we have a response plan in place and will respond to get you home as quickly as possible.
Working while you’re in the program will significantly reduce your ability to focus and get the most out of it. It might also not be possible due to the location and schedule of the program. We, therefore, ask that you make prior arrangements with your workplace and inform them that you will not be able to work during the program period.
We provide an immersive program experience. Therefore, mobile phones may be removed for periods to enhance your engagement and experience. Mobile phone reception may also not be available during some program periods. Your family will be provided with contact information to notify our facilitators in the event of an emergency.
There are a few different ways to get a place in the program. Most places are purchased by agribusiness organisations for their employees. At the same time, employees are encouraged to complete an application for these places. Alternatively, you’re also welcome to self-fund your place.