2026 | FORESTRY AUSTRALIA MENTORING PROGRAM
Applications now closed
A mentoring relationship is a powerful development experience that can deliver personal and professional benefits for both mentors and mentees.
Forestry Australia is delighted to call for applications for its 2026 Mentoring Program.
Since its launch in 2022, the annual program has successfully matched over 130 mentoring pairs, offering a highly regarded professional development opportunity that promotes knowledge sharing, leadership growth, and meaningful connections across the forestry sector. We are now welcoming applications from both mentors and mentees who wish to participate and contribute to this enriching program next year.
Applications closed: Monday 2 February 2026.
“Absolutely brilliant program, my mentor was knowledgeable and engaged throughout the whole event. I was surprised on how much I learnt in the timeframe and would implore anyone who wants to diversify or develop their skill set to apply for the program.”
2025 Mentoring Program Participant
ARE YOU…
- Passionate about forest science, forestry, and forest management?
- Thinking about the future of your forestry career and career planning?
- Looking to improve your time management skills?
- Interested in developing goals and strategies with an experienced professional who has been where you are now?
- Want to improve your networking skills and expand your professional connections?
- A forester or forestry leader looking to share your knowledge, invest in the future of the sector and help others by becoming a mentor?
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Forestry Australia’s mentoring program runs for 9 months and is designed to establish connections within the forestry sector by pairing experienced forestry professionals with those who are seeking professional development, opportunities for knowledge sharing and career growth. The program has been developed around a framework and tool kit of resources which will support participants to ensure effective and sustainable knowledge transfer, skill acquisition and maintaining momentum for all participants.
Some of the Key Themes we explore each month are:
- Establishing Goals
- Time Management for Life
- Building Networks and Professional Connections
- Values and Ethics in Business
- and much more…
Mentors and Mentees are encouraged to invest one hour a month at minimum to meet. It is also recommended that mentees additionally dedicate approximately 8 hours per month to prepare for each meeting – including goal setting, pre-reading, planning & pursuing development opportunities, and reflection activities.
Engagement and connection can be in person or online, whatever works for you.
Participation in the 9-month Mentoring Program is free to all Forestry Australia members. Not a member? Not a problem. If you aren’t currently a Forestry Australia member but would like to become one, go to our Membership Page for more information, or contact membership@forestry.org.au Become a Forestry Australia Member today by downloading a Membership Form HERE
2026 KEY DATES
| 2026 Applications Close | COB Monday 2 Feb 2026 |
| Mentoring partners e-Introductions | Friday 27 Feb 2026 |
| Mentor & Mentee Information Sessions | TBA |
| 2026 Program Close | ‘It’s a Wrap’ Zoom | December 2026 |
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FEEDBACK FROM PAST MEMBERS OF MENTORING PROGRAM
“What you are doing works. There is structure for those who need it, but also built-in flexibility that allows for tailored, targeted mentor–mentee interaction.”
“I am extremely satisfied with the Forestry Australia Mentoring Program. I have found it invaluable — the match has been truly cohesive and I’ve already learned so much. It has been greatly motivating for me both personally and professionally.”
“The program was incredibly valuable. Thank you for providing this platform for growth and connection in the forestry sector.”
“Mentoring is an amazing way develop yourself and others. I am grateful for mentors in my life and thankful that I can contribute to the development of others through the Forestry Australia Mentoring Program, which has provided me with a new network and sense of belonging in the forestry profession.”
“My mentoring journey this year has been both a rewarding and somewhat unique one with my very busy and talented mentee juggling a higher degree thesis project while transitioning out of a long-term position. They are considering where their next career move will take them and this very challenging engagement for both of us will continue into 2025 as they explore options and find exciting new opportunities.“
MENTORING PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
Lauren Hayward
E: admin@forestry.org.au
P: 03 7065 4253
MENTORING COMMITTEE
Tegan Brown
Pat Groenhout
Leon Holt
Braden Jenkin