International Rural Women’s Day feature

Hon. Nicola Grigg, Minister for Women and Associate Minister for Agriculture

1. What has “breaking the glass ceiling” in agriculture meant for you, and how have you navigated spaces where women are under-represented?

Rural women have been breaking glass ceilings for decades by proving they’re capable of anything they put their minds to and I back them all the way. In recent times, I’ve seen more women entering male-dominated fields, bringing value and expertise. But while more women are stepping into leadership positions, they’re still underrepresented compared to their male counterparts, which is something I’m focused on improving. Building a support network and finding a mentor can make all the difference.

2.     Can you share the turning points or experiences that most shaped your journey into governance and leadership?

One key turning point was realising that bias—both conscious and unconscious—was still alive and well when I stood for Parliament in 2020. I spent some time reflecting on my earlier career and realised there are many barriers women face throughout their careers - but by being visible, vocal, and determined - you can create pathways for yourself, and others. I believe we all need to take inspiration from others who have walked the talk, so my journey has always been shaped by my great-grandmother Mary Grigg, National’s first female MP. She was a brilliant example of what it means to fight fiercely for women, farming, and rural communities. Her legacy lives on in many of the decisions I make and the positions I take.

3. What obstacles have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them to reach the role you hold today?

Early in my career, I mistook criticism as ‘part of the job’ rather than a systemic issue. I’ve faced everything from offhanded comments about my appearance and intelligence, to being interrupted at a campaign event I was hosting by a man telling the crowd to ‘vote for a man this time’. I overcame these moments by finding strength in my purpose—representing rural families—and using my voice to drive meaningful change, not just for me, but for all women. My advice is to prove the critics wrong and never give up.

4. How do you think more women can be encouraged into decision-making and leadership roles across agriculture?

We need to build the pipeline of future leaders by nurturing talent early, connecting women to networks, and making leadership positions attainable — both in perception and in practice. But equally, we must shift the culture — because this isn’t just a women’s issue, it’s a societal one, and everyone has a role to play.

5. What changes do you hope to see over the next decade for women in leadership, and what role will women play in shaping the future of our food and fibre sector?

Over the next decade, I want to see more women not just at the table, but at the head of it — shaping strategy, innovation, and the growth of our food and fibre industries. Their perspective is vital to building a thriving, resilient agricultural sector.

6. If you had to describe rural women in three words, what would they be?

Inspirational, resourceful, and unstoppable.