- Rebecca Stephens appointed as chair of the Great Southern Development Commission
- Anne Banks-McAllister AM joins the board as a community representative
- Robbie Miniter OAM reappointed as local government representative
- Outgoing chair Ricky Burges PSM concludes a three-year tenure
Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson has today announced the appointment of Rebecca Stephens as chair of the Great Southern Development Commission (GSDC).
Ms Stephens is a prominent community leader, councillor at the City of Albany and represented the region in State Parliament as Albany MLA from 2021 to 2025. Throughout her career, Ms Stephens has demonstrated a collaborative approach to leadership, working across government, business, and community sectors to deliver meaningful outcomes for the Great Southern.
Ms Stephens' appointment follows the departure of outgoing chair Ricky Burges PSM, who has led the GSDC Board for the past three years.
During her tenure, Ms Burges provided strategic direction to the Commission, with a focus on economic diversification and addressing the region's social challenges, whilst fostering collaboration and strong relationships.
Incoming board member Anne Banks-McAllister AM will join reappointed member Robbie Miniter OAM along with current deputy chair Darren Moir, Perin Mulcahy and Robert Caruthers.
The Great Southern Development Commission Board provides strategic leadership and oversight, guiding the Commission's work to lead, co-ordinate and support the delivery of regional priorities, major initiatives, projects and programs.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Regional Development Commissions play a crucial role across Western Australia, with the local knowledge, relationships and capability to help deliver the priorities that matter to regional communities.
"I welcome Ms Stephens to the role of chair of the GSDC Board and look forward to working with her and the board to continue driving opportunities for the Great Southern.
"I extend my gratitude to outgoing chair Ricky Burges PSM and thank her for her leadership and passionate advocacy for the Great Southern."
As stated by Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:
"The Great Southern region is a major contributor to the State's economy.
"Through the Premier's Seven Cities vision, Albany is well placed to build on the region's strengths and pursue new opportunities in tourism, renewable energy, health care, and global supply chains through the Port of Albany.
"Strong regional leadership helps ensure local priorities inform State Government decision-making and support positive outcomes for the Great Southern."
As stated by Samantha Rowe MLC:
"The Great Southern Development Commission plays an important role in creating the conditions for new investment, stronger local industries and more jobs for people across the region.
"Rebecca Stephens brings a deep understanding of the Great Southern and the experience and connections needed to help drive economic growth across the region."
