Applications are now open for the 2026 Growing Leaders program, a national leadership program for the horticulture sector, developed in consultation with the industry.
This project aims to develop the leadership capacity of participants from across the Australian vegetable supply chain, and build capability to transform the Australian horticulture industry through vision, engagement, action, and leadership.
Growing Leaders is funded by Hort Innovation, using the vegetable and onion research and development levies and contributions from the federal government, and run by affectus.
With 2026 looking to be another challenging year for growers in the Australian vegetable industry, the program is an opportunity to develop a skilled leadership base capable of driving industry-wide transformation.
Research released in September 2025 from national industry body for vegetable producers, AUSVEG, revealed the scope of the $213 million annual compliance, regulatory and red tape burden affecting Australian vegetable growers, as forty per cent actively consider leaving the industry. Responses are currently open for the organisation’s biannual Industry Sentiment Survey, which will offer a key insight into how vegetable growers are tackling challenges.
The program states graduates of Growing Leaders will be well-equipped to take on leadership roles within the Australian horticulture sector, ready to contribute to industry boards, reference groups, and strategic initiatives. This initiative will help create a strong, connected network of future leaders who can drive sustainability and innovation.
Industry stakeholders will benefit from access to skilled leaders capable of transforming the sector through vision, engagement, and action, ensuring the long-term growth and success of the vegetable industry.
The program encourages all sectors of the vegetable and onion industries to apply, including participants from the growing, harvesting, processing, exporters, importers, marketing, suppliers, employees, managers, advocacy, and government areas.
Head to affectusaus.com.au for further information and to apply.
