Roots of Resilience: Growing Sustainable Agricultural Education

2026 Program Highlights

Welcome Reception

Kick off the 2026 National Agricultural Educators Conference in style at our relaxed welcome evening. This event is the perfect opportunity to connect with other educators, industry leaders, and speakers over drinks and delicious canapés.

Keynote Sessions

Tracking Towards $100 Billion by 2030 - David Jochinke, President, National Farmers’ Federation

NFF President David Jochinke shares the vision and strategy behind growing Australian agriculture to a $100 billion industry by 2030. Gain insights into progress, priorities, and the vital role education and innovation play in reaching this ambitious target.

Pathways for Careers and Education in the Thoroughbred Industry - Dr Caroline Duddy, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia

Explore the structure of Australia’s Thoroughbred industry and the wide range of careers it offers from breeding and racing to allied services like veterinary care and marketing. This session highlights TAFE courses, apprenticeships, and new resources including the Thoroughbred Breeders Australia learning modules

Voices of the Future – Student Panel (Eliza University of Melbure Dookie Graduate, Darby Yanco Graduate and Rachel Cann B. Ag, Science (Honours) at UTAS)

Hear directly from the next generation of agricultural leaders as four students from the region share their personal journeys in agricultural education. This inspiring panel will highlight their experiences, what sparked their passion for agriculture, and the opportunities they see in the industry. From classroom to career aspirations, these young voices will offer valuable insights into how education is shaping their futures and how they hope to contribute to the evolving world of ag. A powerful reminder of why supporting ag education matters.

Unlocking Conversations: From bushfoods or native foods to modern agriculture - Joshua Gilbert, Indigenous Consultant, Agriculturist & Innovator

Josh is a respected climate and environmental advocate who has played a pivotal role in connecting the agricultural sector with global climate conversations. Josh is a climate advocate and leader in Traditional Native Foods, working with Indigenous farmers to shape future involvement in western agricultural systems. His efforts create new opportunities for Traditional Landholders and connect agriculture to global climate action.

Industry Connections

This Industry Connections session offers a cross-sector snapshot of Australia’s dairy, grains, meat and livestock, and wool industries. It highlights emerging trends, workforce needs, and innovations shaping agriculture’s future equipping educators with insights to strengthen student pathways and industry engagement.

Delivering Ag through design thinking 

Discover how design thinking can transform agricultural education, leadership, and innovation. This keynote explores creative problem-solving frameworks that empower educators, producers, and policymakers to reimagine challenges and co-create solutions for a resilient future.

The Importance of small-scale agriculture and connecting with community - Sarah Parker EO Victorian Farmers Markets Association

Workshop Sessions

The workshop sessions will offer a diverse and hands-on program designed to inspire, educate, and engage educators across all areas of agriculture. From exploring cutting-edge technologies and innovations to practical soil health solutions.  Walk away with practical tips, tools and resources for your classroom.

Industry Tours

Experience firsthand how agriculture and education intersect across diverse landscapes. Our tours connects educators with innovative farms, agri-business leaders, and emerging technologies highlighting learning pathways and inspiring careers for the next generation of ag professionals

Gala Dinner

Join us for a memorable evening celebrating the future of agriculture at our Gala Dinner.  Enjoy a delicious menu showcasing local produce while connecting with other educators, industry leaders, and special guests.

More program details coming soon...