AgriFutures Australia has welcomed Dr Jamin Forbes as its new Senior Manager, Emerging Industries, bringing deep experience across research, government, universities and research and development corporations to the organisation's future‑focused portfolio.
Based in Wagga Wagga, Jamin commenced in the role in March 2026, joining AgriFutures at a pivotal time as emerging industries continue to play an increasingly important role in diversifying Australian agriculture and creating new opportunities for regional communities.
With a career grounded in applied research and industry engagement, Jamin is known for his ability to translate complex challenges into practical, adoption‑focused outcomes that deliver real‑world impact.
A strong connection to AgriFutures
Jamin says his decision to join AgriFutures was shaped by long‑standing professional connections and a strong alignment with the organisation's purpose.
"I have worked closely with AgriFutures during my time at FRDC and Charles Sturt University and I've always admired AgriFutures' cross‑sector function and its ability to thrive in challenging environments," Jamin said.
"That ability to work across industries, bring people together and deliver impact really resonated with me."
Experience built on impact and collaboration
Jamin joins AgriFutures from the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), where he was Business Development Manager. In this role, he led strategic partnerships, innovation and commercialisation initiatives, and contributed to the development of FRDC's 2025-2030 Research, Development and Extension Plan, helping shape long‑term investment priorities for Australia's fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
Prior to FRDC, Jamin held senior business development and research impact roles at Charles Sturt University, working closely with industry, government and research partners to secure investment and deliver applied research outcomes that supported regional development and natural resource management.
Strong foundations in science and collaboration
Jamin holds a PhD in freshwater ecology, a Master's degree in environmental biotechnology, and a Bachelor of Applied Science, with his academic and professional work consistently focused on connecting science with end users.
Across each stage of his career, Jamin has built a reputation for collaborative leadership, meaningful stakeholder engagement and a commitment to ensuring research investments translate into tangible benefits for industry and regional Australia.
These strengths align closely with the objectives of AgriFutures' Emerging Industries portfolio, which supports the development of new and expanding agricultural industries through targeted research, innovation and market development.
Energised by emerging industries
For Jamin, the appeal of emerging industries lies in the people behind them and the opportunity to help turn new ideas into sustainable, long‑term industries.
"I really enjoy the energy of people working hard to establish or grow something new," he said. "There is great satisfaction to be gained by helping people reach their goals, particularly when they're building something from the ground up."
This people‑focused approach aligns closely with AgriFutures' role in supporting emerging industries through targeted research, innovation and market development.
A flexible approach to complex challenges
Jamin believes his diverse career experience has prepared him well to lead AgriFutures' Emerging Industries portfolio, where flexibility and adaptability are essential.
"I've worked in many different sectors and seen many different ways of doing things," he said. "Emerging industries are complex and they require a flexible approach to address challenges and deliver opportunities."
His academic background underpins a career consistently focused on strong stakeholder engagement, adoption‑focused research and delivering meaningful outcomes for industry and regional communities.
Looking ahead
As Senior Manager, Emerging Industries, Jamin will lead the strategic direction and delivery of AgriFutures' emerging industry investments, working closely with producers, researchers and partners to unlock new opportunities and support sustainable industry growth.
AgriFutures Australia looks forward to the leadership, expertise and energy Jamin will bring to the role and are excited to welcome him to the team.
