Today is International Day of Rural Women. First observed in 2008, this internationally recognised day celebrates the essential role women play in agriculture and food systems of the world.
The latest statistics on Australia’s Agricultural workforce gathered during the 2021 census found 239,093 people worked in the agricultural sector. Of these, 79,827 (33 percent of the workforce) were women and this was up 7,105 workers on 2016 data. Encouragingly, the dial seems to be moving in the direction of gender equality in agriculture in Australia.
Breaking down barriers for female participation is not only the right thing to do, but it also has a positive impact on organisational culture and economic performance.
A study by a leading business consultancy found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on their executive teams were 21 percent more likely to experience above-average profitability. The findings also indicate that companies with low representation of women and other diverse groups were 29 percent more likely to underperform on profitability.
The Workplace Gender Equality Agency says a diverse workforce is associated with greater innovative capacity, varied perspectives, holistic thinking, enhanced problem-solving ability and increased profitability. So, when it comes to agriculture, increasing female participation in the sector represents an exciting opportunity to unlock further value in the sector.
General Manger Elisa Hunter, who has worked in the water industry for over 20 years, said supporting greater diversity was a key focus for Southern Rural Water.
“Women play an integral role in supporting great outcomes for communities,” she said.
“When more diverse voices are heard, we can achieve so much more. That’s why we are actively taking steps to ensure Southern Rural Water better represents our communities, by increasing our workforce diversity.”
Josie Zilm, a beef farmer and Agribusiness Executive at National Australia Bank based in Gippsland, believes there's a bright future for women in agriculture because agriculture has a bright future.
“The challenge of feeding a growing population in a profitable and environmentally sustainable way in the face of a changing climate needs the best and brightest women and men. We need to work together to realise this huge opportunity,” she said.
Josie walks the walk and has achieved gender equality in her team and has found supporting the needs of men and women delivers real benefits.
“It’s been encouraging to see more men take up flexible work so they can enjoy more time with their kids and nurturing their own well-being - all of which has a positive impact on their lives and performance at work,” she said.
“Providing equal succession opportunities for all team members is important because I firmly believe those with care-giving responsibilities - typically women - should get the same support to achieve their potential and get leadership roles.”
Josie is optimistic about the future of farming and believes encouraging more diversity will create a stronger, more skilled, more resilient sector ready for tomorrow’s world. We agree and encourage you to read the stories of three go-getters who are doing great things for women in agriculture.
Nicole Saunders
Nicole moved from New Zealand to the Macalister Irrigation District follow her farming dreams. Today, she runs a 700-cow dairy and farm café and recently won Gippsland Food and Fibre’s Young Agribusiness Leader of the Year award. Her vision, enthusiasm and grit are an inspiration for budding entrepreneurs. Read Nicole’s story.
Josie Zilm
Josie grew up on a family dairy farm in Traralgon and it sparked a life-long passion for agriculture. She completed an agricultural science degree before working in finance and running a beef farm of her own. She champions resilience, gender equality, promoting career paths in agriculture. Read Josie’s story.
Julie Weatherhead
Julie co-owns Peppermint Ridge Farm that showcases sustainable agriculture and the benefits of growing native foods. Her enthusiasm is infectious, her wisdom insightful and her passion for teaching inspiring. She was awarded Gippsland Food and Fibre’s Female Agribusiness Leader of the Year award in 2024. Read Julie’s story.