Young Sheep Industry Leaders Sought for International Program

Australia’s next generation of sheep industry leaders are invited to apply for the Global Sheep Forum Next Generation Program.

An international leadership and networking program, it connects young people from the Australian sheep industry with peers from New Zealand, the United States, United Kingdom and Canada.

The program also includes online leadership masterclasses, international project collaboration and a face-to-face program in South Australia – including on-farm visits and attendance at LambEx26.

Tiffany Davey, from Western Australia, participated in the 2024 Next Generation Program.

She said it highlighted the value of global connection and honest peer-to-peer learning.

“The stronger and deeper our networks, the better off we are as an industry,” she said. “There’s real strength in sharing openly and in challenging each other to be, and do better, as producers. Through the program, we became quite close which allowed us to have those honest conversations – calling each other out and pushing for ways the broader industry can improve.”

Ms Davey said the experience was particularly valuable for young people developing their skills, building networks and businesses.

“As someone just starting out in the industry, I’m always looking at ways I can do better and evolve,” she said. “The program allowed me the opportunity to meet some of the most forward-thinking sheep producers in Australia.”

The 2026 Next Generation Program is open to sheep producers and those working directly in the Australian sheep industry aged 18–35 years.

For more information, including eligibility details and how to apply visit https://www.sheepproducers.com.au/2026-leadership-opportunity