In October, BioDiversity Legacy joined landholders, Traditional Owners, scientists, and conservation organisations from around the country at the 2025 Australian Land Conservation Alliance Conference, held in Gimuy (Cairns).
The conference theme – Scaling Up: Local Action for Global Solutions – echoed what drives our work at BioDiversity Legacy every day: empowering and facilitating landholders and communities to protect the land they love – from early steps in land stewardship to formal and lasting protection.
Shared purpose and momentum
The Australian Land Conservation Alliance (ALCA) is the national peak body for organisations working in private land conservation, bringing together people who are actively restoring and safeguarding nature on privately managed land. This year’s event created a powerful space for sharing knowledge, building partnerships and exploring innovative models for long-term protection.
BioDiversity Legacy was proud to be announced as one of ALCA’s newest member organisations, alongside the National Landcare Network – a milestone that reflects our growing role in this national movement (see the full list of ALCA members here).
Contributing to the conversation
BioDiversity Legacy staff were delighted to play an active role in the Land Conservation Forum for Landholders on Tuesday, 7 October, with our Head of Conservation Engagement & Partnerships, Dixie Fitzclarence, co-presenting a session with Andrew and Angus Cleary from Nuggan Sanctuary, who shared their family’s inspiring conservation journey and their work to secure lasting protection for their land.
BioDiversity Legacy’s Far North Queensland Biolink Coordinator, Keith Smith (who is also involved in Queensland’s Private Protected Area Program), participated in the Ask an Expert session, offering insights into land management and conservation practices.
Inspired for what’s next
Says Dixie: “The week was filled with insight and connection. MC Sean Dooley kept spirits high and Peter Garrett’s closing remarks left the room energised for the road ahead. We left Cairns inspired and looking forward to reconnecting with everyone in Lutruwita/Tasmania next October for ALCA26 and in Naarm/Melbourne for the 2027 International Land Conservation Network Global Congress.”
How to ensure the family farm can continue to thrive and prosper for generations to come
BioDiversity Legacy Director and active land covenantor, Jim Phillipson, is a strong advocate for succession planning to ensure that landholders and families can stay connected to the land.
Jim was one of 40 speakers invited to present at the GROUNDED farming festival in Tasmania, where he provided practical tips and advice on succession planning for farming families – a critical yet challenging conversation.
Modelled on the UK’s Groundswell festival, GROUNDED was established by the renowned Australian chef turned farmer Matthew Evans and partner Sadie Chrestman. It is a unique platform created ‘by farmers, for farmers’ allowing them to share knowledge about regenerative farming practices, food systems, soil and much more. Over 6,000 people attended the event.
Heather and Jim Phillipson on their family farm in East Gippsland.
Approaching challenging conversations
Jim highlighted the fact that, while these conversations can be difficult, if neglected, they can jeopardise the future of the farm.
He emphasised a structured approach to these discussions, highlighting several key strategies, including the engagement of a neutral facilitator to guide discussions.
“This third party provides an objective perspective, helping to manage emotions and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the farm,” said Jim.
“Their role includes communicating with title holders and formalising agreements, which can lead to more productive conversations.”
Jim advises starting initial discussions with a small group, specifically those listed on the property title. This approach minimises complications and allows for clearer decision-making.
“Once a foundational framework is established, broader family discussions can take place.”
Establishing a defined timeframe for succession planning is also crucial, said Jim, who recommends a seven-year window, broken down into three, five, and seven-year goals. This timeline encourages structured planning while preventing procrastination, making the process more manageable and focused.
A significant shift in mindset is also necessary when prioritising the farm over individual family members. By treating the farm as an independent entity, families can foster long-term viability and avoid the pitfalls of dividing the farm or selling it off. This perspective encourages discussions that focus on the farm’s future rather than individual interests.
Jim also urged the audience to consider alternatives to equal shares among children.
“Placing the farm into a protected legal entity can ensure its sustainability while providing income for retiring parents. This method can often yield better financial outcomes than traditional equal division,” he said.
Finally, he stressed the importance of acting while there is still control over decision-making. “Delaying the succession planning process can lead to a loss of influence over the farm’s future. By starting early and setting clear goals, families can create a succession plan that benefits both the farm and its family members.”
