You must attend all sessions in order to graduate from the program. Our programs are designed to build your awareness and experience through each session. Experiential learning is one of the most engaging and deep methods of learning. Wrapping up your learnings through reflection is crucial for a positive learning experience. If you don’t intend to commit fully, this program may not be right for you. We’ll do our best to make sure you don’t miss out if unforeseen circumstances stop you from attending, though. Please reach out if you’d like to discuss concerns with our program team.

For more information, view our Participant Attendance Policy.

Aside from some travel and personal expenses to, from and during sessions, the program is free to attend, thanks to our program partners.

The project has received grant funding from the Australian Government.

Our programs are based on experiential learning and are designed to create more time for networking and social connections through evening activities. Being away from home and the habitual place of work takes away the distractions of everyday life. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the learning experience.

Regional leadership programs don’t just benefit individual participants. They also benefit the cohort and the entire community.

At an individual level, you invest in yourself to develop the skills, mindset and networks to understand and influence uncertainty and create vibrant communities for generations to come. You grow your networks within and outside of your community by joining the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s national network. That is more than 1,700 people working for the greater good of their communities.

The community will gain a group of courageous and influential people. These people will have the skills to gather support from within the community and their new network to put the plan into action.

Improving leadership at all levels is needed to drive improvements in disaster response. Are you someone who:

• Owns or leases rural land around Canberra, Yass, Michelago, Burra, Bredbo, Queanbeyan, Bumbalong, Tharwa or Royalla? 
• Undertakes activities to manage rural land, parks or state forests?
• Is a current or emerging leaders in local government policy and governance in environment, planning or emergency response department?
• Leads an interest group with a stake in the region?
• Is a leader in emergency first response? 

If you answered YES to even one of these questions, and are committed to building a strong network to manage future bushfires and natural disasters, consider applying.