The Albanese Government has made new key appointments to the board of Australia's world-leading reef management agency, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
The Reef Authority leads global efforts to preserve and protect the iconic Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most significant natural wonders.
Patricia O'Callaghan, The Honourable Stephen Robertson and Professor Bronwyn Harch have been appointed to the board of the Reef Authority, each serving a minimum term of four years.
Ms O'Callaghan has held significant senior positions in the private and public sectors and currently serves as the Director-General of the Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
Mr Robertson is a former senior Queensland government minister with more than 13 years' experience in portfolios including energy, water and natural resources. He brings a wealth of knowledge in natural resource management, public administration and governance.
Professor Harch brings a unique blend of scientific knowledge and governance expertise, and has an exceptional understanding of Reef challenges and insights into environmental disturbances such as floods and climate change.
Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said the appointments strengthen the Reef Authority, underpinning the Albanese Government's $1.2 billion investment into world-leading management of the Great Barrier Reef.
"The Reef Authority is on the front line when it comes to protecting the Great Barrier Reef and the 77,000 jobs that depend on it," Minister Watt said.
"I am delighted to announce these new appointments, each bringing their own unique range of expertise to help us better protect the Reef.
"Ms O'Callaghan's strong leadership experience in tourism, strategy and government brings a clear understanding of how important the Reef is to Australia's future.
"Mr Robertson's time in government, along with his expertise in natural resource management, will provide invaluable leadership to the board.
"And Professor Harch will help the Reef Authority to strengthen its evidence-based decision-making for the Reef, having previously worked with Australia's national science agency, the CSIRO.
"I'd like to thank Ms Robbie Sefton for her contribution to the Reef Authority over the previous term and, once again, I would like to acknowledge Professor Emma Johnston, who tragically passed late last year, for her outstanding contribution to science in Australia during her time with the CSIRO and the Reef Authority.
"Together, these appointments will ensure the Reef Authority can continue to work alongside the Queensland Government, scientists, Traditional Owners and industry to protect the Reef and those who depend on it for generations to come."
