Austria study shows rising female leadership in agriculture

A new study titled ‘Arbeits- und Lebenssituation der Bäuerinnen in Österreich 2026’ reveals a significant shift in the role of women within the Austrian agricultural and forestry sectors. Presented by Agriculture Minister Norbert Totschnig, the data shows that the proportion of women taking over farms has risen from 22 percent in 2016 to approximately 34 percent in 2026.

Women are increasingly acting as central decision-makers. Approximately 38 percent of surveyed women report having primary responsibility for farm management, while another 31 percent manage operations jointly with a spouse. The study highlights that women are driving innovation in areas such as tourism (77 percent), direct marketing (66 percent), and the processing of agricultural products (58 percent).

Despite these advancements in leadership and involvement in field work, the study notes a persistent burden. Women continue to bear the primary responsibility for family, household, and caregiving duties alongside their professional roles.