Intergenerational farm succession: How does gender fit?

Abstract

This article explores gender and intergenerational farm succession, with a particular focus on the Australian context. We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) of extant research in gender and farm succession patterns internationally, coupled with a systematic sampling of legal databases to see how farm succession has been addressed in the Australian legal system. From the SLR, we established that internationally there are changing roles on farms; proactively addressing succession is recognized as contributing to the ongoing viability of the family farm; gender norms continue to privilege sons and dismiss daughters; and the commitment to maintaining the family farm intact is a priority. From the legal databases we found limited attention has been paid to gender and farm succession in the Australian context. Challenges to legal arrangements for farm succession are usually made on the grounds of unfair distribution of assets between siblings (adequacy of pro-vision) rather than a claim to farm inheritance, and these cases rarely rest on accusations of gender discrimination. We argue that succession disputes are either largely resolved through mediation, or never attempted, as the family farm remaining intact trumps gender in succession planning. Through drawing the SLR and legal cases together, we provide insights for the farm advisory community to better inform future intergenerational farm transfer.