How governance skills are helping rural leaders make a greater impact

As an AgriFutures Australia-sponsored recipient of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Foundations of Directorship course, Griffith-based farmer and industry leader Nathan Crowley is strengthening the governance skills needed to help shape the future of Australian agriculture.

Nathan manages his family’s farming operation near Griffith, New South Wales, producing rice and cereal crops using precision agriculture, alongside a prime lamb enterprise. With a background in engineering and large-scale construction project management, he brings a unique blend of technical expertise, commercial acumen and practical farming experience to his work.

Alongside managing the family business, Nathan is actively involved in industry leadership through the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia (RGA), contributing to advocacy, policy development and governance discussions that help shape the future of the Australian rice industry.

When Nathan applied for the AICD Foundations of Directorship course, he was taking on increasing governance responsibilities and looking to strengthen his ability to contribute at a strategic level.

“Following a request to nominate for the board of the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia, I wanted to ensure I had a strong understanding of governance, director duties and board dynamics so I could contribute responsibly and effectively on behalf of growers,” he said.

The course provided practical governance knowledge while also encouraging participants to broaden their thinking beyond day-to-day operations and consider the long-term strategic direction of organisations.

Reflecting on his experience, Nathan said one of the most valuable lessons was understanding the distinction between operational management and governance.

“Coming into the course from a hands-on agricultural background, my decision-making was naturally built on operational management and practical experience,” he said.

“The AICD program helped me lift my head above the daily operational grind and look at the bigger picture. It showed me the difference between running a business day-to-day and governing an organisation for the long term.”

Nathan said the program strengthened his understanding of financial oversight, risk management and strategic decision-making, while giving him the confidence to apply those skills in leadership roles.

“I gained practical confidence in reading the financials, understanding legal liabilities and setting the overall direction and culture,” he said.

“Crucially, it taught me how to step back and trust executives and management to run the day-to-day operations, while the board focuses on asking the hard, strategic questions and ensuring the organisation remains on solid ground.”

For Nathan, building governance capability is not only about individual development—it is also about strengthening the future of Australian agriculture.

“Agriculture is under a lot of pressure right now, from shifting climate patterns and water policy to market changes and generational succession,” he said.

“We can’t just be good producers anymore; we need strong, skilled leaders who can stand up for our regional communities and help keep our industries viable.”

Through his involvement with organisations including the RGA and SunRice, Nathan has seen firsthand the value of strong governance during times of uncertainty and change. He believes effective boards play a critical role in helping organisations navigate challenges while positioning industries for long-term success.

“As a young leader, I feel a responsibility to ensure we aren’t simply reacting to challenges, but actively helping shape the future of our industries,” he said.

“That means balancing environmental outcomes with regional prosperity, food security and the long-term sustainability of Australian family farms.”

One of the most significant outcomes of the program, according to Nathan, was the confidence it provided to pursue future governance opportunities.

“The biggest thing the course did was prove to me that practical, on-the-ground agricultural experience is genuinely valuable at the board table,” he said.

“Before this, I might have assumed a corporate background mattered more in governance.”

Since completing the course, Nathan has proactively engaged with local and regional organisations to learn more about board service and explore future governance pathways.

“I’ve actively reached out to local and regional organisations to better understand how their boards operate and explore future governance opportunities. That’s something I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do before,” he said.

Nathan encourages others who are considering applying for leadership and governance development opportunities to put themselves forward.

“If you’re thinking about it, just put your hand up and do it,” he said.

“Make the time, back yourself and throw everything into the learning. You’ll probably be surprised by how much experience and knowledge you already bring, and how valuable your regional perspective can be in governance settings.”

AgriFutures is committed to investing in leadership, capacity building and professional development opportunities that strengthen the individuals, industries and communities it serves. Programs such as the AICD Foundations of Directorship course help develop a pipeline of skilled rural leaders who can contribute to strong governance, informed decision-making and sustainable industry growth.

Applications are now open for the 2027 AgriFutures-sponsored AICD Foundations of Directorship Program.

Click here to apply