Swapping the cities and coastlines for paddocks and stockyards, a new generation of women is forging careers in agriculture, bringing fresh perspectives and innovation to the industry and proving that you don't need to be born into farming to make an impact.
Growing up in the coastal town of Lake Macquarie, 26-year-old Livestock Development Officer Emily Johnston is among a growing cohort of young women who have become captivated by an entirely different world— for Emily, it was one measured in hectares, genetics, and the science of food production.
Now, she is helping reshape the landscape of Australian agriculture, taking complex scientific data and transforming it into digestible, practical insights for farmers.
"In agriculture, no two days look the same for me - one day I'm in a paddock talking genetics with producers, and the next, I'm in the office strategizing ways to communicate research," Ms Johnston said.
Alongside her work within the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Emily has also launched a podcast series, Genetics in the Paddock with Emily.
"After COVID, podcasts exploded, but there weren't many dedicated to science and agriculture," she said.
The podcast was designed to break down genetic concepts in a relatable, easy-to-understand way, while featuring domestic and internationally respected experts in the field, such as Dr David Johnston and Professor Julius Van Der Werf.
"Genetics can seem abstract, but by presenting it in a conversational style, we aim to make it more accessible for producers—answering their questions, clearing up confusion, and equipping them with the tools to make informed decisions," Ms Johnston said.
Aside from the success of her podcast, which has 4,000 listeners across Apple, Spotify and YouTube, Emily said one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is witnessing someone grasp a challenging breeding concept.
"Science doesn't have to be hard - seeing that moment of understanding click, especially when it comes to something as abstract as genetics, is incredibly fulfilling."
Emily's journey into agriculture has been far from easy - growing up without a farming background, she recalls having many questions about the industry.
"Everything seemed so measured and intentional—how farmers produced food and fibre for the world fascinated me."
That curiosity led her to pursue a Science in Agriculture degree, a decision that shaped her future and helped her uncover the intricacies of an industry she had previously only admired from afar.
When asked about the challenges of being a woman in agriculture, Emily acknowledged that while inequalities persist, her experience has been largely positive, with an increasing presence of female graduates and professionals across the sector to show for it.
"I've been fortunate to be part of a supportive environment—the industry is curious and welcoming, and it's great to see women taking on leadership roles, including my own team, which is female-led."
"The agriculture sector is welcoming more and more women into a range of roles—from hands-on technical work to research and everything in between."
According to the Commonwealth's Department of Agriculture, Fishery and Foresty (DAFF):
- From 2016 to 2021, the number of women employed in agriculture grew by 7,105 workers, representing almost two-thirds (66 per cent) of the overall expansion in the agricultural industry.
- Sheep, beef cattle and grain farming accounted for 42 per cent of women working in the agricultural sector.
In 2024, four female students came equal first in the NSW HSC Primary Industries subject, including Josephine Galcsik, who, like Ms Johnston, didn't grow up on the land.
Despite her background, Josephine is pursuing farmhand work in Cessnock, and has just been accepted into a double degree in Law and Agriculture Science in 2026.
"My lack of built-in knowledge and connections means I have to take initiative and actively seek out opportunities through placements, mentors and my own hands on work," Ms Galcsik said.
"Additonally, entering an industry where many people come from multi-generational farming backgrounds sometimes means I have to prove my knowedge and skills more than others – this has just made me more detemined to learn and gain experience."
Emily believes more networking opportunities for women would help further bridge the gap and make the transition into ag less daunting for newcomers. For young women considering a career in agriculture, her advice is simple.
"Talk to people—you'd be surprised how many are willing to help you get started. Most of the industry is incredibly welcoming, and experienced professionals love sharing their knowledge.
"Whether you love or hate statistics, prefer being outside or in a lab, like working with people or prefer working with plants or animals—there is something for everyone and a place for you here.
"All you have to do is be willing to listen and learn."
DPIRD Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Biosecurity Rachel Connell said Emily and Josephine's stories show us how passion can drive change in agriculture.
"Women have always been integral to agriculture. Recognising their efforts and increasing their participation is vital for the future of rural communities and the primary industries that sustain them," Ms Connell said.
