- Published:
- Tuesday 2 June 2026 at 4:30 pm
Labor is building the next generation of women leaders in agriculture through leadership programs.
Minister Settle recently presented certificates to graduates of the 2025–26 Victorian Rural Women’s Network Leadership and Mentoring Program at Parliament House.
We’re backing more women in agriculture and regional industries, with this year’s Budget including $279,000 to support the ongoing delivery of the program that has equipped female leaders since 2018.
Over 11 weeks, participants received mentoring and leadership training from industry and government leaders, including Alana Johnson AM and Christine Nixon AO, AMP, building the skills to take on leadership roles and contribute to decision-making in agriculture and the broader community.
The program also provides targeted support and networking opportunities, strengthening connections and pathways for rural women to step into leadership positions.
Among the graduates from the 2025–26 cohort are Tania Morris and Anna Hose.
A regional Victorian viticulturist and senior cellar hand, Tania Morris transitioned into agriculture after a 25‑year leadership career in the disability sector. She applied for the program to reconnect with her leadership strengths, rebuild confidence, and apply her experience in a new industry.
A regional manager and agronomy adviser with experience across grains, pasture systems and farm leadership, Anna Hose is interested in inclusive leadership and cultural change that better supports caregiving responsibilities.
The Victorian Rural Women’s Network Leadership and Mentoring Program is the Government’s flagship initiative supporting rural women to take on leadership roles and participate in decision-making across Victoria.
Since its inception, the Government has invested more than $850,000 in the program, with over 100 graduates now equipped with the skills and networks to strengthen leadership across the sector.
Quote attributable to Minister for Agriculture Michaela Settle
“Congratulations to this year’s graduates – your leadership will help shape a stronger, more inclusive future for Victoria’s agriculture sector, and we’re ensuring that continues with our support.”
Quote attributable to program graduate and viticulturalist Tania Morris
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that you only feel like an imposter if you allow yourself to believe you are one, the program helped me recognise that my experience, knowledge, and leadership have value, even if my pathway into agriculture looks different to others.”
Quote attributable to program graduate and regional agronomy adviser Anna Hose
“The leadership program has helped me develop a deeper understanding of my values and strengths; it’s challenged me to think laterally about adaptive challenges within both the workplace and broader community.”