Minister for agriculture Joe Ludwig has congratulated seven state and territory finalists for the 2013 RIRDC Rural Women's Award.

Describing the seven finalists as "inspirational women with a passion for rural and regional Australia", Mr Ludwig said they came from a diverse range of backgrounds from crocodile farming to mental health advocacy, and cattle production to forestry. 

The seven finalists were selected after the submission of a project or ‘vision’ each wanted to become a reality.

The finalists are Katie Coad, Tasmania; Michelle Freeman, Victoria; Danielle England, Western Australia; Anna Hooper, South Australia; Giovanna Webb, Northern Territory; Alison Fairleigh, Queensland, and Isobel Knight, NSW.

“This award recognises rural women and the critical role they play in our agricultural workforce,” Mr Ludwig said.

“Today I met with the NSW winner, Isobel Knight, and heard about the work she’s doing with succession planning.

“Isobel and all of the finalists are passionate examples of the continuing achievements of women in Australia’s rural communities.">

To help each state winner realise her vision the RIRDC Rural Women’s Award provides a $10,000 bursary.

It also provides the state winners, and the runners-up, with personal and professional development opportunities.

The national winner will be announced in October at the 2013 RIRDC Rural Women's Award National Celebratory Dinner, at Parliament House in Canberra.