Future beef industry leaders sought for development program
Leaders and future leaders in the beef industry are invited to apply now for a unique beef industry-specific leadership and professional development program. The 12-month Advancing Beef Leaders (ABL) program will allow participants to learn from key industry leaders, mentors and facilitators both face-to-face and virtually.
From humble beginnings with 10 participants in the 2020 North Queensland pilot program led by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), the ABL program has grown to host two cohorts of 11 participants each year from northern and southern Queensland. The expanded 2025/2026 program will include the Northern Territory, northern Western Australia, and northern New South Wales in line with Australian Livestock Research Council regions.
The program has been developed and delivered in collaboration with the private sector.
Several past participants have continued their leadership journey through more advanced programs such as Nuffield Australia, Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) and Zander McDonald. Some have joined beef industry and community committees, secured positions in AgForce or been elected as local government councillors.
The ABL Foundation was established in 2022 to support the ABL program as it transitions from a DPI-led program to a board-governed, external sponsorship model. Chaired by Don Heatley OAM, the Foundation’s vision is to establish the leading national network and accelerator of beef industry change makers. The Foundation are making great progress in this period of transition and have secured two major sponsors – Rabobank and Meat and Livestock Australia.
ABL receives funding through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation.
If you’re a producer or agribusiness professional looking to develop your skills and confidence, consider applying for the ABL program. Applications close 30 March 2025.
