Sarah Hughes from Georgina Pastoral Co travelled to the UK and Japan some years ago as part of her Nuffield scholarship looking into Wagyu niches

AGRICULTURE sector stakeholders participating in the Nuffield Scholarship program are more likely to innovate, lift production and expand their enterprises, a recent study has shown.

A new report from Nuffield Australia shows that almost 90 percent of alumni have enhanced their farming systems and boosted production after completing a scholarship.

The Nuffield Australia Impact Report 2025 highlights the role the Nuffield program plays in driving innovation, leadership, and new business opportunities across the sector.

Nuffield Australia CEO, Jodie Redcliffe, said the report demonstrated that Nuffield scholarships deliver strong, tangible outcomes for participants both on and off-farm.

“Eight seven percent of scholars saw an improvement in their farming systems and production, while 71pc improved their ability to generate more income,” Ms Redcliffe said.

“Additionally, 70pc started new businesses or organisation, and 68pc adopted new brands, products or innovations.

“Behind these figures are people who are creating jobs, investing in regional communities and increasing the productivity of Australian agriculture,” she said.

The assessment also found that almost half of program graduates were more likely to undertake further study following their scholarship, reinforcing the program’s role in fostering lifelong learning and leadership.

Ninety five percent of scholars reported that their professional networks and access to industry expertise expanded as a result of the program — an endorsement of its impact on building industry-wide collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Investors and industry leaders interviewed for the report said the program cultivates candidates for leadership positions, introduces new perspectives through cross-sector networking and helps with the dissemination of agtech and new innovations.

“Nuffield is about broadening scholars’ scope, broadening their minds, and exposing them to other ways of thinking and doing things,” vice president of the World Farmers’ Organisation, Fiona Simson said when interviewed for the report.

Adelaide to host 2025 Nuffield Conference

This year’s annual Nuffield Conference will be held in Adelaide in September.

From carbon farming and regenerative agriculture to drought resilience and export markets, the biggest issues and opportunities facing Australian agriculture will be explored at this year’s national conference from September 9-10.

More than 30 Nuffield scholars will present their latest research from across the globe.

Nuffield CEO Jodie Redcliffe said this year’s conference was particularly timely, with the first crop of scholars sponsored by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund presenting their research as much of southern Australia grapples with drought conditions.

“I encourage people from across the agricultural industry to register so they can hear the latest research and innovations straight from the horse’s mouth and participate in robust conversations about what they mean for Australian agriculture,” Ms Redcliffe said.

The conference is about more than just the latest Nuffield research, with presentations and involvement by industry leaders often starting thought-provoking conversations.

Another key component will be the announcement of the 2026 Nuffield scholars at a presentation dinner on Monday, September 8. Selections are currently underway for the coveted scholarships, with the announcements of next year’s recipients a career-defining moment for the lucky awardees.

For more information and to register, click here.