About the IFAJ

The ACAJ offers access to valuable international networks, professional develop opportunities and opportunities to explore global agricultural issues through its affiliation with the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ).

This year celebrating its 50th anniversary, the IFAJ is a federation of national associations of rural journalists and communication specialists. Its growing membership covers more than 30 countries embracing freedom of the press.

An individual automatically becomes a member of the IFAJ when they join a national organisation affiliated with the federation. In Australia, that means becoming a member of one of the four rural media clubs affiliated with the ACAJ.

IFAJ members include writers, broadcasters, photographers and designers, public relations professionals, marketers and communicators working in all agricultural communications media. They report on all aspects of agriculture, horticulture, forestry, fishery and food production industries.

Activities include:

• An annual Congress, hosted in a different country each year. The conferences feature:

• conference sessions with international leaders in areas such as agricultural policy, global trade reforms, research, production and marketing;

• tours to farms, manufacturing and research facilities;

• networking opportunities;

• professional development sessions and debates on issues effecting rural media; and

• the presentation of international awards for writing and photography.

• Professional development, including links to professional resources and educational opportunities, exchanges and scholarships.

• An awards program recognizing excellence and encouraging journalists and photographers to pursue careers in the agricultural sector, including the Star Prizes for writing and photography and the Young Leaders Award for Agricultural Journalists.

• A bi-monthly e-newsletter and active website accessed by thousands of members around the world.

• Access to networks in member countries to help source information, set up high-level briefings, arrange visits and interviews.

The organisation is managed by a Presidium, supported by working committees which focus on professional development, membership, communication, finance and organizing annual congresses. Each member country is represented by a national delegate who serves on the international executive.