The search is on for inspiring rural women to step forward, with applications now open for the 2026 AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Award.
The award recognises and celebrates inclusive and courageous leadership by women involved in Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities.
Queensland’s 2025 state winner and Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Agribusiness Network, Nicole McNaughton, said she encouraged all rural women to put themselves forward.
"The Rural Women’s Award has been a life-changing opportunity to grow and connect with like-minded, passionate and supportive women,” Ms McNaughton said.
"It's given me the opportunity to grow personally and professionally while connecting with an inspiring network of Queensland finalists – the inspiring Libby Cook-Black and Angie Nisbet.”
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Deputy Director-General Biosecurity Rachel Chay said the awards are an important reminder of the crucial role women play in regional communities.
"We are so lucky in Queensland to have so many inspiring women in our communities who lead with strength and courage,” Ms Chay said.
"The DPI is pleased to support the 2026 AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Award – not only to recognise and celebrate the amazing women leading in our rural communities, but to equip them with the resources to bring their boldest and most innovative ideas to life.”
As part of her win, Ms McNaughton received a $15,000 grant from Westpac to further her work and will represent Queensland at the 2025 National Gala in Canberra on Tuesday, the 28th of October.
"I’m excited for the upcoming National Gala – it's a chance to reconnect with my fellow state winners, celebrate the strength of rural women, and proudly fly the flag for Queensland. This journey has re-energised my passion for building ecosystems where women support one another,” Ms McNaughton said.
Westpac, the award’s platinum sponsor for more than 15 years, will provide a $20,000 grant to the National winner and $15,000 to the runner-up. Queensland finalists also benefit from the support of state sponsor, the Queensland Country Women’s Association, which provides a $2,000 grant to each finalist, alongside access to professional development and alumni networks.
For women not quite ready to apply for the award, AgriFutures also offers a $7,000 Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant to support leadership and development opportunities.
Applications for both the 2026 Rural Women’s Award and Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant close on Friday, the 7th of November 2025. Follow the links to Apply!
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