Farming, food security, and climate resilience – in conversation with Anika Molesworth

Farming and climate change are closely intertwined. Our land, animals, and communities are extremely vulnerable to climate extremes, but agriculture can also be a powerful agent of change and part of the solution.

​We had the absolute privilege of speaking with Anika Molesworth, Climate Reality Leader, farmer, board director, researcher, speaker, and author of Our Sunburnt Country. ​Recognised as the 2015 Young Farmer of the Year and a 2017 NSW Finalist for Young Australian of the Year, Anika brings a unique perspective shaped by both hands-on farming and national advocacy.

In our Q&A, we explored her experience at the intersection of farming and climate action, the connection between Australian farmers and global food security, and how we can all contribute to building more sustainable and resilient food systems.

Climate Reality: What inspired you to become a Climate Reality Leader, and how has that training shaped your work and daily life?

Anika Molesworth: I became a Climate Reality Leader because I wanted to turn concern into action, and to build a network for people active in climate solutions. At the time, I felt deeply worried about the impacts of climate change but also wanted to equip myself with the skills to communicate solutions and inspire others. The training gave me confidence, a global network of allies, and the ability to frame climate conversations in ways that resonate with people from all walks of life. It helped shape the choices I make, the projects I lead, and the way I encourage others to act with courage and hope.

Climate Reality: How has your experience as both a farmer and an advocate shaped the way you see the role of agriculture in tackling climate change?

Anika Molesworth: Farming has shown me firsthand how vulnerable our land, animals, and communities are to climate extremes, but also how powerful agriculture can be as part of the solution. As an agriculturalist, I see the practical realities: the risks, the costs, and the uncertainty. 

But I also see the bigger picture: that agriculture can sequester carbon, restore landscapes, and provide nutritious food in ways that regenerate rather than deplete. Those two perspectives together keep me grounded while also pushing for systemic change.

Climate Reality: What inspiring examples of nature-based solutions have you seen, and how might they shape the future of Australian farms and landscapes?

Anika Molesworth: I’ve seen farmers regenerating native vegetation alongside productive paddocks, restoring soil health through cover cropping and compost, and rehydrating landscapes by slowing and capturing water. Internationally, I’ve worked with farmers and agricultural scientists and the forefront of climate adaption. I know that farming and nature don’t have to be in conflict. In fact, the most resilient farms of the future will be those that work with nature rather than against it.

Climate Reality: What are the biggest obstacles to adopting nature-based solutions in agriculture, and how can we overcome them?

Anika Molesworth: The biggest obstacles are political will and lack of clear national direction. Farmers need support to take risks, whether that’s access to finance, fair markets, or trusted advice. Policy and incentives can help shift the economics, while peer-to-peer learning builds confidence. We also need to celebrate the farmers who are leading the way, so others can see what’s possible.

Climate Reality: How do the challenges facing Australian farmers connect with global food security and climate resilience?

Anika Molesworth: Australian farmers are on the frontlines of climate change, facing droughts, floods, fires, and heat stress. These challenges are not unique; farmers worldwide are grappling with the same extremes. The way we adapt here, by trialling resilient crops, diversifying systems, and restoring ecosystems, can provide lessons globally. 

Food security and climate resilience are two sides of the same coin: we can’t feed the world without protecting the planet, and we can’t protect the planet without changing how we feed the world.

Climate Reality: What can everyday people do to support sustainable farming and food systems?

Anika Molesworth: Everyday choices matter, what you buy, where it comes from, and how it’s produced. Supporting local farmers, choosing regeneratively produced food, reducing food waste, and asking supermarkets and restaurants about their sourcing all send strong signals. Beyond the shopping basket, everyday people can support policies that reward sustainable farming and join community efforts that connect people back to the land. But we also need to be pushing for change in all aspects of our lives – transport, clothing, banking, and of course the big one – energy!

Climate Reality: Despite climate challenges, what gives you the most hope for the future of farming?

Anika Molesworth: What gives me hope is the courage and creativity of farmers. I’ve met farmers who are trialling new methods, restoring ecosystems, and building resilience in so many ways. I also see the younger generation of farmers stepping up with energy and vision, and consumers increasingly demanding better food systems. 

That collective momentum makes me believe change is not only possible, but inevitable.

Climate Reality: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Anika Molesworth: Only that agriculture is not just about producing food, it’s about caring for land, water, animals, and communities. When we farm with that broader vision in mind, we create systems that sustain us all. Climate change is a huge challenge, but it’s also an invitation to farm and live differently, with care, courage, and hope. And if anyone wants to find out more information, head to Farmers for Climate Action.  

You can purchase a copy of Our Sunburnt Country here.