Where the crows fly backward and women explore their choices

Between 1971 and 2006, Australian family farms have declined by 46 percent. Reasons for this are globalisation and increased competition, the year long drought and increased debts. Family farming makes up 99 percent of the farming industry and Australia relies economically on its output, therefore it is important to consider the role of women in farming. Considering changing market conditions and climate change, a great deal of resilience of those remaining on the family farm is assumed. But can it persist? Will young women step into the footsteps of their mothers? This qualitative research project (case studies) looks at the attitudes of women in relation to staying or leaving the land, professional aspirations, and expectations regarding the family farm. The responses show that the young generation does not believe that family farming offers a secure livelihood or has great future prospects. Interesting is that the young women were encouraged by their mothers to leave farming, to acquire a profession, and to seek personal and professional fulfilment outside of farming. And Charles Sturt University in Wagga, where the crows fly backward, provides some educational tools.