Developing the leadership capacity of the Australian Sugar Industry : Final report LDI001

Abstract

Young members of the Australian Sugar Industry see themselves as being isolated from the decision-making process, primarily because they don’t understand the process but also due to a lack of investment in developing skills in this area. The industry is foregoing the benefits of having all industry sectors contribute to this process.

Delivered across three years, the Impact on Sugar and Advance in Sugar Leadership Development Programs equipped sixty-one young industry members with the necessary skills, knowledge, confidence and networks to take a professional leadership role at an enterprise, organisation and industry wide level. In recognition of the varying levels of readiness of industry’s young people to participate in leadership development programs a two tiered program was devised to enable involvement at the appropriate level.

The project has successfully responded to specific needs of young people in the sugar industry. Involvement in the program enabled participants to form an ongoing network of likeminded young people who explore the issues and opportunities within industry, redressing their sense of isolation.

Many young people have a high level of knowledge about their particular region and sector but lack a ‘whole of industry’ perspective. Hence the program was designed to build networks across all sectors and regions of industry. Furthermore, the program successfully collaborated with a wide cross section of industry stakeholders and leaders to ensure participants were exposed to current thinking, impressive role models, industry trends and sources of support.

Fundamental to the success of the program was a requirement that each participant identify, design and implement an industry project. This provided opportunities to practice those skills learnt during the residential sessions, as well as making a practical contribution to industry. Furthermore, the industry project provided each participant with a mandate to meet with industry leaders and make a difference. Additionally, 500 industry, political and community leaders have participated in the project to expose participants to industry issues, opportunities and trends, together with providing valuable support. The Impact on Sugar and Advance in Sugar Leadership Development Programs have demonstrated the potential of individuals within industry and the benefits to be gained across all sectors when industry invests in their professional development.