What’s happening?
The Queensland Government is inviting women from rural and regional areas to apply for the 2026 AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Award, with applications now open.
The award celebrates inclusive and courageous leadership in Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities.
Applications close on Friday 7 November 2025.
Why it matters
Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General Biosecurity Dr Rachel Chay said these awards are a timely reminder of the crucial role women play.
“We are so lucky in Queensland to have so many inspiring women in our communities who lead with strength and courage,” Dr Chay said.
“We're 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.”
Local impact
Queensland’s state sponsor, the Queensland Country Women’s Association, will provide a $2,000 grant to each Queensland finalist.
Finalists will also gain access to professional development opportunities and alumni networks, creating further opportunities for rural women.
By the numbers
$15,000 grant from Westpac goes to each state winner.
$20,000 grant for the National winner and $15,000 for the National runner up.
$2,000 provided by Queensland Country Women’s Association for each Queensland finalist.
$7,000 Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant available for women not yet ready to apply.
Zoom in
Queensland’s 2025 state winner, Nicole McNaughton, Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Agribusiness Network, encouraged all rural women to apply.
“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.”
As Queensland winner, Ms McNaughton received a $15,000 grant from Westpac to further her work and will go on to represent Queensland at the 2025 National event in Canberra on Tuesday 28 October 2025.
“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,” she said.
Zoom out
Westpac has been a platinum sponsor of the awards for over 15 years. AgriFutures also offers the Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant as an additional leadership and development opportunity.
These awards continue to recognise rural leadership while providing resources to help bring innovative ideas to life.
What to look for next?
Applications for the 2026 AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Award and the Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant close on Friday 7 November 2025.
More information is available HERE.