Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud and Assistant Minister for Agriculture Senator Richard Colbeck have announced new directors to guide the investment and research efforts of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC).
Minister Littleproud said the new directors would help oversee strategic investment of producer and taxpayer funds.
"The fisheries sector is a vital part of Australian food production," Minister Littleproud said.
"The high quality research and data from FRDC helps ensure we continue to supply high quality, sustainably sourced seafood into the future."
Senator Colbeck said fisheries management and policy is based on the best available science and Australia's fisheries are recognised among the most sustainable and best managed in the world—but the government needed to continue investing in R&D to maintain that status.
"I look forward to working with the new board as it continues to help create a sustainable and innovative fishing industry for Australia," Senator Colbeck said.
New directors and re-appointments appointed to 31 August 2021 are:
- Dr Kate Brooks, VIC—Director and sociologist, KAL Analysis Pty Ltd
- Professor Colin Buxton, TAS—Principal Consultant, Colin Buxton and Associates (reappointment)
- Mrs Saranne Cooke, NSW—Trustee Director, HESTA Super Fund
- Mr Mark King JP, NSW—Horticulturalist, owner/operator mixed farming enterprise
- Mr John Lloyd, NSW—Former Chief Executive Officer, Horticulture Innovation Australia Ltd
- Ms Katie Hodson-Thomas, WA—Director, Corporate and Public Affairs, Strategic Communications, FTI Consulting
- Dr Lesley Macleod, VIC—Director, FRDC (reappointment)
Minister Littleproud and Senator Colbeck thanked the outgoing directors Ms Renata Brooks, Mr John Harrison, Associate Professor Daryl Mcphee and Mr John Susman for their significant efforts and achievements.
"The outgoing directors helped FRDC as it helped grow the Australian seafood industry to a $3 billion industry," Minister Littleproud said.
Fast Facts
- In addition to FRDC's Research Development and Extension Plan for 2015–2020, the new directors will also contribute to the development of the next plan and its evolution to a broader longer term strategy that will foster greater collaboration, innovation and deliver strong results for fishing and aquaculture in Australia.
