A new cohort of Nuffield Drought Resilience Scholars will help strengthen research and knowledge-sharing on drought and climate resilience.
Announced this week, 5 scholarships have been awarded under the Drought Resilience Scholarship Program, a partnership between the Future Drought Fund (FDF) and Nuffield Australia.
The program supports emerging agricultural leaders to explore innovative tools and practices that can help farmers and communities prepare for drying conditions.
Scholars will travel across Australia and overseas to meet leaders and innovators, bringing practical insights back to the sector.
The 2027 Nuffield Drought Resilience Scholarships awardees are:
- Angus Smith from South Australia, who will investigate how successful livestock businesses recover and strengthen resilience after drought
- Ellenor Nixon from New South Wales, who will examine international approaches that balance agricultural production with conservation outcomes
- Kristen Clark from New South Wales, who will explore the potential for artificial intelligence to strengthen drought resilience in dairy businesses
- Lucy Etheridge from Victoria, who will research how farmers can benefit from natural capital assets in tough times
- Ivan Blacket from Victoria, who will investigate agroforestry practices to increase sustainability, biodiversity and community resilience.
The 2027 Drought Resilience Scholars will share their learnings with peers, industry leaders and communities. Their work will add to practical knowledge that helps Australian agriculture better prepare for and respond to drought and climate challenges.
Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Matt Lowe said Nuffield Drought Resilience Scholarships were giving emerging leaders the opportunity to bring global insights back to local communities and help shape the future of Australian farming.
"One of the greatest strengths of the Nuffield program is the way ideas are shared,” he said.
“The lessons these scholars bring home will reach far beyond their own enterprises, helping farmers and communities across Australia build resilience in a changing climate."
The announcement brings the total number of Nuffield Drought Resilience Scholars sponsored by the FDF to 20, continuing support for emerging leaders in Australian agriculture.
For more information on the Drought Resilience Scholarship Program, visit Drought Resilience Scholarship Program.
