Common Ground Project

Women are the primary farmers of the world. They produce 60-80% of food in lower-income countries, often operating on fewer than 5 acres. But compared with men, women have less access to essential things like land rights, capital, training, tools and decision-making. Women farm just as efficiently, but the yields are limited because they have fewer resources to work with. If we consider what might be possible were we to close these gaps, we can start to imagine a world in which more food is produced by small-scale farms. The flow-on effect of which means more organic produce available at an affordable price, reduced carbon emissions, and stronger local food systems. Closer to home here in Victoria, Australia, we have our own statistics to contend with. The average age of a farmer is 57. There are many determinants of this but it is worth noting that while females hold 53% of agricultural degrees, they make up 26% of the full-time workforce. Less than 20% are represented in agricultural leadership positions, and only 9% are on agricultural councils. Again, what is possible if we close these gaps? Not for the moral principle alone, but the economic and climate imperatives too? On the ground at Common Ground Project it’s hard to believe that women were only recognised as farmers thirty years ago in Australia. Our farm wouldn’t function if it weren’t for Ariel - dancing between harvest, produce deliveries, marketing, farmers markets and financial reporting every week. Or Lila and Grace, our farm interns who hit the ground running and have since shifted the dial on how much our humble farm can output on any given day. Empowered female farmers are key agents of change in agriculture and food systems. Investing in them creates gains for productivity, industry, economy, and the climate. This is not just a theory, nor is it a new idea. There is plenty of literature to support it and likely the reason why the UN has declared 2026 the International Year of the Female Farmer. Our next farm internship program will kick-off in June. If you know a young female who is interested in exploring food and farming as a career, we would love to hear from them.

⏰ In case you missed it... “Every ticket to this dinner helps change a life.” At Common Ground Project, Nathan Toleman and his team host community dinners where guests enjoy incredible food - but their ticket also funds job training for women, supports local farmers, and feeds back into the community. That’s hospitality at its best. Because service excellence isn’t just about a flawless dining experience - it’s about connection, contribution, and consciousness. When you know where your money goes, as a business or a consumer, every choice becomes an act of service. 💭 What if every business asked: How can we serve beyond the sale? 🎥 Watch the full conversation below where Nathan shares how purpose can be plated — and how hospitality is changing lives one meal at a time. 👉 https://lnkd.in/g8FinU_7

🌟 Inclusive Employment Workshops 🌟 In collaboration with Workforce Australia Local Jobs Barwon, GROW - G21 Regional Opportunities For Work and Give Where You Live Foundation, we are proud to present a free series of Inclusive Employment Workshops aimed at helping local businesses build more inclusive, diverse and accessible workplaces. Whether you attend one or all, these interactive workshops are designed for employers, HR professionals, and business leaders. You'll gain practical tools and insights to develop culturally safe and inclusive hiring practices. 🎯 Workshop Focus Areas:   • CALD Communities | Oct 31 at Common Ground Project   • Disability Inclusion | Nov 18 at The Paddock   • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Inclusion | Feb 11 at Wathaurong Booln Booln Cultural Centre   • Online Wrap-Up Session | Mar 4 via Microsoft Teams 💡 Free to attend – but places are limited! REGISTER NOW 👉 https://loom.ly/SMUgRKk Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. #InclusiveEmployment #GeelongJobs #WorkforceAustralia #GROWInitiative #CommunityImpact #DiversityAndInclusion #CALD #DisabilityInclusion #FirstNations #LocalJobs

Don't forget your tickets for a unique lunchtime event during the Give Where You Live Foundation's Feed Geelong Appeal that highlights the rich culture and cuisine of the Common Ground Project's Staying Grounded program graduates. Each course tells a story, celebrating the power of food to connect us, empower communities, and inspire change. Wednesday, 15 October 2025 12.00pm – 2.00pm Common Ground Project, Freshwater Creek This is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to connect, to learn, and to contribute to a stronger, fairer, food future for our region. Book now at https://lnkd.in/gCiZy93N