Regional Australia is growing, and with growth comes new challenges and opportunities. Are you ready to lead through these changes? If so, the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) could be for you.

Applications for the ARLP Course 32 are now open. This 15-month program, focusing on creating leaders who are adept at mobilising networks and driving positive change in rural, regional and remote communities, industries and organisations.

Gardiner Foundation sponsors a Victorian dairy farmer each year. The scholarship is part of Gardiner Foundation’s continued investment in strengthening the dairy industry through the development of its people. 

Over the last 32 years, the program attracts leaders from various backgrounds, fostering an inclusive cohort who will form a valuable and broad resource of expertise with an enormous capacity to lead, inspire and create change.

The ARLP accepts up to 30 participants per program, chosen on the basis of their contributions to rural sectors, their plans for the driving change and an ability to see beyond themselves towards the bigger picture including:

  • Established Rural Leaders: Looking to tackle complex challenges and make a significant impact
  • Passionate Community Advocates: Looking to enhance advocacy skills and deepen community engagement.
  • First Nations Leaders: Looking to combine traditional knowledge with dynamic leadership skills to benefit your communities and industries.

Spread across in-person sessions and online learning modules across the 15 months, participants will benefit from individual coaching sessions and action learning groups that support your growth throughout the program as well as graduating into a supportive network of over 2600 leaders in rural, regional and remote areas.

Key Dates:

  • Session 1 (June 2025): A 12-day session in regional New South Wales focusing on self-awareness and foundational leadership skills.
  • Session 2 (October 2025): A 10-day session in Indonesia emphasizing building connections and mobilizing teams.
  • Session 3 (May 2026): A 6-day session in regional Australia focused on expanding networks and affiliations.
  • Session 4 (September 2026): A 10-day session in regional Australia covering influence and impact, culminating in graduation.

Please note that participants must attend all four sessions and allocate additional time for online coaching and project work between sessions in order to graduate from this program. This commitment ensures a comprehensive and immersive leadership development experience.

The Australian Rural Leadership Foundations aims to have approximately 30 scholarships available, each valued at over $60,000. Successful applicants will be matched with sponsors that align with their industry, sector, or purpose, ensuring a tailored supportive experience. If there is no scholarship available, you may also have the option to bring your own sponsor.

If you have something to give back to rural, regional and remote sectors apply for the ARLP today: https://rural-leaders.org.au/