Chairperson announcement for Agrifutures Australia

11 January 2026. The appointment follows a competitive, open selection process. AgriFutures Australia is one of 15 Research and Development Corporations (RDCs) that service the research and development needs of Australian agriculture and rural industries.

It supports developing and delivering programs that respond to the national challenges and opportunities that impact the Australian agricultural sector. The term of current Chair, Ms Cathy McGowan AO, will conclude on 10 January 2026. The Government thanks Ms McGowan for her contribution and leadership.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP: “Mr Veitch is passionate about the future of Australia’s agribusiness industries and has spent his life advocating for rural and regional Australia. “That’s why I congratulate him on his appointment to AgriFutures Australia – where he will continue to make an enormous contribution to the diversification and future growth of our agriculture industry.

“I also thank outgoing Chair Cathy McGowan for her leadership and innovation over her tenure with AgriFutures. “She has made a significant impact to our agriculture industry which will live on through the work of the organisation. I wish her all the very best for the future.” We acknowledge the continuous connection of First Nations Traditional Owners and Custodians to the lands, seas and waters of Australia.

We recognise their care for and cultivation of Country. We pay respect to Elders past and present, and recognise their knowledge and contribution to the productivity, innovation and sustainability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.