Applications have opened for the 2026 intake for the Australia Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP), the cotton industry’s premier leadership development initiative.
It is anticipated that the applicants for the 2026 intake of 15 will share a desire to further enhance their careers through their commitment to developing leadership knowledge, skills and experience.
Applications will be welcome from across the supply chain including growers, consultants, merchants, and research and extension personnel, all wanting to further develop their leadership skills and undertake a project related to their area of interest. The course is designed for the best and brightest young people from across the industry.
Held every two years the AFCLP is run and coordinated by Cotton Australia with support from the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC). The program has produced 132 graduates since the concept was devised in 2006.
In 2024, 16 participants were chosen from 45 applicants to take part in the course which included a program of face-to- face forums, interactive online discussions, one-on-one sessions and integration with industry activities.
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said leadership, knowledge, innovation, research and hard work are ensuring we maintain our reputation as producers of some of the world’s best cotton.
“Leadership is one of the key priorities of the cotton industry’s strategic plans and nurturing next generation leadership development is an important part of that.
“The AFCLP has been a valuable part of the industry for many years in that we have been able to identify individuals with incredible potential and those people have graduated the program to become CEOs, Board Directors and key decision- makers across the cotton industry.”
AFCLP graduates include the former Chair of the Cotton Australia Board Nigel Burnett, the current President of the Queensland Farmers Federation Aaron Kiely and the 2025 CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year Grace Griffiths.
“The Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program is a cornerstone of the cotton industry’s leadership development,” said CRDC Executive Director Allan Williams.
“It equips emerging leaders with the practical tools and confidence to tackle challenges, drive innovation and create real change. Just as importantly, it builds a powerful network — connecting participants with current industry leaders and forging strong bonds within each cohort.”
The AFCLP is best suited to people who are keen to progress their leadership skills and who are actively involved in a cotton enterprise, or related position and industry area such as cottonseed, ginning, extension, research, and consultancy.
In 2026, the program will feature face-to-face forums, interactive online discussions, one-on-one coaching and integration with industry activities. Participants will also undertake an individual project related to their area of interest, which will assist in developing their leadership skills in a real-life scenario.
The 2026 program will conclude with a graduation ceremony at the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Leadership Dinner on the Gold Coast in August. Applications close November 30.
Cotton Australia is the peak body for Australia’s cotton growers. For more information visit www.cottonaustralia.com.au/
