Applications are now open for the 2026 intake of the Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) — the cotton industry’s flagship leadership development initiative.
Held every two years and coordinated by Cotton Australia with support from the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), the program is designed to nurture the next generation of leaders from right across the cotton supply chain.
Fifteen emerging leaders will be selected for the 2026 intake, each bringing a passion for the industry and a commitment to developing their leadership skills through training, mentoring and an individual project tailored to their area of interest.
Since its inception in 2006, the AFCLP has produced 132 graduates who have gone on to become board directors, CEOs and key decision-makers across Australian agriculture. Among them are former Cotton Australia Chair Nigel Burnett, Queensland Farmers Federation President Aaron Kiely and 2025 CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year Grace Griffiths.
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the program is a cornerstone of the industry’s ongoing success.
“Leadership, knowledge, innovation, research and hard work are ensuring we maintain our reputation as producers of some of the world’s best cotton,” he said.
“The AFCLP has been invaluable in identifying individuals with incredible potential and giving them the tools to lead our industry into the future.”
CRDC Executive Director Allan Williams said the program not only equips participants with practical leadership skills but also builds enduring networks.
“It gives emerging leaders the confidence to tackle challenges, drive innovation and create real change,” he said. “Just as importantly, it connects them with current industry leaders and forges strong bonds within each cohort.”
The 2026 program will feature face-to-face forums, interactive online discussions, one-on-one coaching and integration with major industry events. It will culminate with a graduation ceremony at the Australian Cotton Industry Leadership Dinner on the Gold Coast in August 2026.
Applications are open to people working across the industry — from growers and consultants to researchers, ginners and merchants — who are keen to enhance their leadership capability.
Applications close 28 November. To apply, visit forms.gle/7tM25sEpUJiNqGYJ6. For more information about Cotton Australia, visit cottonaustralia.com.au.
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