The National Mentoring Program is part of the Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative.

The program is delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) in partnership with the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal and the National Farmers' Federation (NFF).

The program is fully funded by the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund and has already connected more than 300 rural Australians with a mentor and delivered a number of leadership development programs in drought-prone communities across the country.

Program participants will give and receive personalised guidance on setting and achieving goals while gaining practical communication skills and greater self-awareness.

ARLF chief executive, Matt Linnegar, said: "The ARLF has been the pre-eminent provider of leadership development in rural, regional and remote Australia for 30 years with more than 2400 alumni in all parts of the country and beyond. It is this network of people with a shared vision for thriving communities that stands behind every individual choosing to be the best version of themselves in order to make a difference."

NFF chief executive officer, Tony Mahar, said: "Mentoring and leadership development are key to advancing agriculture to unlock opportunities and reach our ambitious goal to be a $100 billion industry by 2030.

"An important part of this is having well-equipped leaders in regional, rural and remote areas who help their communities tackle challenges like drought. This program provides lifelong tools to future leaders who can then step up in these times."

Applications are open until 3 April and can be made via the ARLF's website. Applications from people interested in either becoming a mentor or finding one are encouraged.

Apart from one-on-one mentoring sessions, the program includes virtual learning sessions focusing on communication, leadership and self-awareness to develop drought preparedness, build resilience and develop stronger networks within communities.

All applicants should be living in or connected to rural communities and bring a desire to be actively engaged in rural communities or rural industries.

More information is available on the ARLF website: http://bit.ly/3DAhlZS