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Stephen Todd
The Power of Farming Collectives
As climate volatility intensifies and traditional farming models are tested, Australian agriculture stands at a crossroads. In this dynamic presentation, Stephen Todd—regenerative development leader and founder of Volt Farmer—explores how farming collectives are unlocking a new era of resilience and opportunity for Australian producers. Discover how collective action is accelerating access to drought-proof income streams, from renewable energy ventures to diversified farm enterprises. By pooling resources and sharing risk, collectives empower farmers to weather uncertainty and capture value from innovation that would be out of reach for individuals alone.
Central to this transformation is the power of collective data: when farmers join forces to gather, analyse, and act on shared insights, they gain the leverage needed to negotiate better outcomes, drive efficiency, and future-proof their operations. But with this power comes responsibility. Stephen will address the urgent need to protect agricultural data from misuse, championing transparent, farmer-led governance models that safeguard privacy, uphold trust, and ensure data delivers value back to the land. Join us to learn how collaborative models, digital tools, and a culture of shared stewardship are reshaping the future of Australian farming, making it not only more profitable and drought-resilient but also fairer and more secure for the next generation.
Panel | Collaborating across borders for climate resilience and food security
This panel discussion will begin with an inspiring story from Stephen Todd, founder of Volt Farmer. The Australia-Zambia Collaborative Clime Smart Farm Project is one of enterprise and ingenuity as two groups come together to pioneer a new generation of Agri-solar and regenerative farming projects some might consider a living blueprint for the future of sustainable agriculture.
By integrating advanced solar energy systems, regenerative land management, and cutting-edge farm enterprise technology, these projects are transforming rural communities. The initiative empowers local entrepreneurs, improves food security, and restores ecosystems—all while fostering economic opportunity and climate resilience.
This story is indicative of a wider opportunity warrant great discussion.
The spirit of openness and meaningful collaboration goes beyond the feel-good factor. The latest scientific research results and digital tools can be harnessed to optimise productivity, monitor ecosystem health, and support data-driven decision-making.
Join this panel for lively conversation on:
- Real-world examples of cross border partnerships driving enterprise, education, and environmental stewardship.
- Collaborating to achieve reliable clean energy, climate-smart irrigation, and regenerative land use.
- The role science and digital developments can play in maximising yields, protecting natural resources, and supporting community-led innovation.
About Stephen
Stephen Todd is a pioneering leader in regenerative agriculture and renewable energy, recognized for his innovative work at the intersection of agri-solar development, sustainable land management, and climate resilience. As the founder of Volt Farmer, Stephen has championed projects that blend advanced solar technologies, soil health strategies, and collaborative farming models to deliver practical climate solutions for rural communities. With a background spanning land development, farm enterprise creation, and digital innovation, Stephen is dedicated to empowering farmers and entrepreneurs through collective action, data-driven insights, and ethical stewardship of natural resources.
His work extends from Australia to international partnerships, including transformative agri-solar and regenerative farming initiatives in Zambia that combine cutting-edge technology with local enterprise and cultural wisdom. Stephen is a passionate advocate for open collaboration, leveraging artificial intelligence tools, digital twins, and fintech solutions to accelerate the transition toward climate-smart, profitable, and resilient agricultural systems. Through Volt Farmer, he continues to inspire a new generation of land stewards, driving positive change for people, planet, and the future of food.
It is important to Stephen that it be recognised that he works as part of a team: