More than 88,000 women working in agriculture are being celebrated as champions of production and prosperity.
Marking International Women’s Day on Friday, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Deputy Secretary Tess Bishop said women account for more than a third of the agricultural workforce and make a significant contribution.
"Women have long played a vital role in agriculture and have often been overlooked," she said.
"Today is about celebrating and recognising the diversity of our sector and the key role women hold now and for future growth."
She said an increasing number of women are achieving qualifications in agriculture, including agricultural science, animal husbandry and wool science.
Cairns-based Beth Cookson, the first woman to hold the position of Australian Chief Veterinary Officer, said it was important for workplaces and families to have greater flexibility to support more women to focus on their careers.
As the nation's top vet, Dr Cookson ensures Australia maintains its domestic and international reputation in animal health and the biosecurity controls that safeguard agricultural production and trade.
Dr Cookson said she was particularly passionate about regional Australia, celebrating inspiring women in diverse agriculture roles, and championing those of tomorrow.
"My career is really important to me, and it gives me a lot of energy ... This makes it easy to continue to be fully engaged in a busy career and enjoy a rewarding family life with my husband and daughters," she said.
"I try to create that space for the people I work with and encourage a healthy work-life balance," Dr Cookson said.
She has worked on animal health surveillance programs in northern Australia, biosecurity programs in neighbouring countries, and international trade negotiations.
The National Farmers' Federation has celebrating the day by opening applications for its flagship diversity in agriculture leadership program.
"With the program in its seventh year, we're seeing generational change across industry and partners," federation president David Jochinke said.
He said women agricultural graduates were earning more than their male counterparts and wanted to keep the momentum going as they progress in their careers into leadership positions.
GrainGrowers boss Shona Gawel said programs like this are a valuable way of supporting women and significantly benefit the wider agricultural sector.
The number of women employed in agriculture grew by 7105 workers, representing two-thirds (66 per cent) of the overall expansion in the agricultural industry from 2016 to 2021.
Sheep, beef cattle and grain farming accounted for 42 per cent of women working in the agricultural sector, according to department data.
