Evaluation shows ABL Program alumni stepping into hands-on industry leadership

More than half of Advancing Beef Leaders (ABL) Program alumni have gone on to join beef industry boards or committees, according to a new independent evaluation of the program’s impact. The Advancing Beef Leaders Program Alumni Evaluation Report, prepared by Dr Gerry Roberts (GR Consulting), found 54% of respondents have taken up formal governance roles since completing ABL, while 63% have initiated governance changes within boards, committees or their own family enterprises. As one alumnus shared, “Since ABL I’ve gone on to focus on boards and I’m doing my AICD in early 2026 … ABL definitely assisted.” (View the evaluation snapshots here.)

For a program designed to build practical, grounded leadership capacity across Australia’s beef industry, the findings are significant. Alumni are not only building confidence — they are stepping forward. Eighty-three percent said ABL enabled them to move their career in a positive direction, and 78% reported increased confidence in making key business and agribusiness decisions. As one participant reflected, “ABL has given me confidence that I can bring something to any table.” Another shared that the program provided clarity and momentum: “It helped me get clearer on where my interests lie so that I could focus on that area and to see where things weren’t aligned, so it was easier to move roles to set myself up better for future direction.” Importantly, 78% are actively drawing on their ABL network to overcome challenges or explore new opportunities — with alumni describing the network as “incredible” and a constant source of support.

The evaluation also confirmed the long-term value participants place on the experience. Ninety percent rated their return on investment at 5 or higher out of 7 (average 6.17), and 93% said they would recommend the program to others. Across 41 alumni respondents a combined 49 tangible business changes had been implemented — spanning succession planning, communication systems, financial management, governance processes and new technology adoption. Feedback included reflections such as, “It has certainly helped my career as it got me to my goal of managing the family property. It has helped my business by the general understanding I gained and networks I can call upon.” The findings affirm ABL’s focus on self-awareness, collaboration and real-world application — equipping beef industry leaders who are willing to back themselves, contribute meaningfully, and create proactive, collaborative networks.