Leadership Programs for Communities
For years, the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) have worked side by side to support leadership that’s grounded in place and led by community.
Now, with continued support from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s Future Drought Fund, that partnership is growing. Together, we’re backing the people who shape Australia’s most resilient communities.
The Leadership Programs for Communities are part of the Future Drought Fund’s Communities Program.
Building drought resilience starts with local leadership - people who know their communities, care deeply, and take action when it counts.
What types of Leadership Programs will be available?
A diverse range of leadership programs will be available across each region, designed to support both emerging and experienced leaders:
- Workshops: Practical, face-to-face sessions designed to strengthen leadership mindsets and skills
- Residential programs: Immersive experiences that build confidence, networks and the ability to lead through uncertainty
- Tailored support: Coaching and development options for individuals or groups
The National Mentoring Initiative, also part of the Future Drought Fund’s Communities Program, offers a 12-month mentoring experience for people across the country. Whether you’re looking to be mentored or share your own experience, it’s a powerful way to grow and give back.
The benefits of stepping into leadership
Empower change in your community
Dive into the essence of change-making by understanding your region's readiness, exploring the dynamics of change, and mastering resilience against setbacks.
Strengthen and nourish your community
Address the challenges of drought, trauma, and other events with tools to provide support and ensure a balanced, inclusive environment for everyone.
Cultivate inclusive and authentic conversations
Delve into the ecosystem of genuine engagement. Learn to suspend judgments, foster trust, and build diverse relationships.
Access to a wider alumni network
Engage with the expansive ARLF alumni. A community that's there to offer advice and perspective whenever you need it.
Practical leadership skills for all
Regardless of titles or roles, embrace skills that promote collaboration. Navigate complex challenges, understand behavior patterns in stressful times, and find the resilience within to champion your community's future.
Connect and collaborate
Dive into a rich network of peers and experts, connect local networks, foster a deeper shared purpose, and develop capabilities that enable action.
Tailored activities for your region
No two communities are the same. That's why our leadership development is specifically adapted to fit the unique needs of each region.
Long-term regional benefits
Our leadership activities are more than just workshops. They're about building a foundation for future growth.
What regions will be covered?
There will be a focus on regions identified as drought sensitive, with dedicated opportunities designed to suit local leaders. The map outlines the regions in the Community Impact Program. A full list of the included Local Government Areas (LGAs) in each region can be found here.
Grants and capacity building
ARLF’s project partner, FRRR will deliver other elements of the Future Drought Fund’s Communities Program including:
- Community Impact Grants: Funding to activate initiatives in regions
- Small Network Grants: Funding for projects to support communities prepare for drought
- Capacity Building Initiative: access support through a pool of experienced professionals
- Regional Drought Resilience Plan Social Outcomes Grants: support delivery of social priorities in existing regional plans
What’s coming in 2025 to 2028?
Over the next three years, the program will continue to grow and evolve
National Mentoring Initiative | ARLF
Virtual 12-month mentoring program bringing together mentees who want to contribute to their community’s drought resilience, with experienced mentors. Mentoring is open to individuals over the age of 18 who are connected to rural, regional or remote Australia
Community Impact Program | ARLF and FRRR
Not-for-profits in selected regions will design a roadmap of initiatives to support drought resilience. Grants will fund local projects (FRRR) and leadership development (ARLF).
Small Network Grants | FRRR
Available over multiple rounds for eligible organisations outside the above regions.
Capacity Building Initiative | FRRR
Participants will explore the ability to lead through uncertainty, build trust across differences, and turn complexity into action.
Social Outcomes Grants | FRRR
New funding stream to resource local delivery of social resilience actions.
Tried and trusted across Australia
This partnership has supported thousands of people across rural, regional and remote Australia — building confidence, connection and capability in the face of change.
FAQs
A full list of FAQs related to the Future Drought Fund’s Communities Program can be found here.
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Want to know more?
Fill out the form to register your interest and we’ll be in touch to talk through what’s next.