Applications open for 2026 NT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award
Territory women with bold ideas and a vision for the future of rural and regional Australia are invited to apply for the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.
Celebrating its 25th year, the Award is Australia’s leading platform recognising and supporting the leadership of women across rural, regional and remote businesses, industries and communities.
The Award champions Territory women who are already making a significant impact in their communities and supports them to take their vision further.
Over the past two decades, the Rural Women’s Award has supported more than 300 women from a range of industries to achieve position change for rural and regional Australia through their innovative projects.
State and Territory winners each receive a $15,000 grant from Westpac to progress their project, business or program, as well as access to professional development and the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Alumni network.
The National Winner and Runner Up, announced at a Gala Dinner, will receive an additional $20,000 and $15,000 respectively.
Women with an established project, business or program that benefits rural industries, businesses or communities are encouraged to apply.
AgriFutures Australia Chief Operating Officer Belinda Allitt said the Award celebrates and elevates women whose ideas have the potential to shape the future.
“Every year, we meet women who are challenging the status quo and finding new ways to strengthen their industries and communities,” Ms Allitt said.
“The Rural Women’s Award is about more than recognition; it’s about providing the tools, networks and confidence to turn ambition into action. It is an opportunity for women from every corner of the country, whether they’re based on‑farm, in a regional hub, or working from the city, to step forward with a project that can make a tangible difference to rural and regional Australia.”
State and Territory winners each receive a $15,000 grant from Westpac to progress their project, business or program, as well as access to professional development and the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Alumni network.
The National Winner and Runner Up, to be announced at a Gala Dinner later in 2026, will receive an additional $20,000 and $15,000 respectively.
Running alongside the Award, the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant provides a separate but complementary opportunity for women looking to strengthen their ideas and leadership skills before applying for the Award.
Each year, seven Australian women receive up to $7,000 in bursaries for professional development to help develop their ideas, and ambitions into tangible outcomes. More information is available at Agrifutures website.
Applications close Friday 30 January 2026 for NT applicants. For more information and to apply visit Agrifutures website
