ANZ has announced a partnership with the Australian Beef Industry Foundation to deliver a scholarship program aimed at developing future generations of Australian rural agribusiness leaders.
The ANZ and ABIF Rural Leadership Scholarship Program will offer successful participants a paid place to attend the renowned Kellogg Rural Leaders Program at Lincoln University in New Zealand. Applications for the scholarship program are open from 16 July until 31 August and can be made through www.abif.com.au
ANZ’s Head of Agribusiness, Regional Australia, Mark Bennett said: “ANZ is pleased to be partnering with the ABIF in what we hope will become a leading scholarship program for delivering young talent back into the Australian agricultural sector, and in particular the beef industry.”
“We’re committed to supporting regional Australia and what better way than to invest in a program which ensures a pipeline of skilled young leaders is being delivered into the Australian beef industry for generations to come,” Mr Bennett said.
In a recent paper on the beef industry, ANZ noted that the Australian beef industry has a compelling story to tell, and a window of opportunity is emerging for producers. The ability to identify and then capitalise on new and emerging markets will be crucial, particularly over the next 3-5 years.
Despite the challenges of global economic uncertainty and a high Australian dollar, there are two key components on our side. On the demand side, there are significant export opportunities to Asia and other emerging economies, as a result of higher income and GDP levels, population growth and greater demand for protein.
On the supply side, key competitors are facing supply constraints. Beef markets are seeing lower global slaughter levels, but slaughter levels in Australia are set to grow. We have a buoyant domestic market, with cattle numbers growing and an improved seasonal outlook.
“Differentiating our product in a global market is more important than ever. The industry has a great opportunity to be innovative. We have the skills and expertise to be a market leader – so let’s use it,” Mr Bennett said
