New appointments to the AgriFutures Board
The Albanese Labor Government has appointed seven directors to the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (AgriFutures Australia) Board. Appointed AgriFutures Board Directors are: Dr Harjeet Khanna (reappointment) Daniel Le Feuvre (reappointment) Dr Catherine Ainsworth Anna Cochrane Allison Harker Joel Kopanica Mark Narustrang The appointed directors bring extensive experience and skills across agriculture, research, innovation and governance, and will make valuable contributions to the growth and prosperity of Australian agriculture.
AgriFutures Australia plays an important role in Australia's rural innovation system, investing in research, development and extension (RD&E) for its levied rural industries. AgriFutures also has a unique role to deliver RD&E for emerging industries, develop future leaders and address national challenges facing Australian agriculture. The directors have been appointed for a three-year term on a part-time basis from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2029.
Of the seven appointments, two of these have been reappointed. Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP: “I am pleased to welcome new and reappointed directors to the AgriFutures Board. "The AgriFutures Board plays an important role in driving innovation across Australia's rural industries, helping producers prepare for and respond to emerging challenges and seize new opportunities.
"New and returning directors bring diverse expertise that will help guide AgriFutures Australia's important work supporting the continued growth of Australian rural industries. "I thank outgoing directors for their dedication and contribution to Australia’s rural industries research and development and wish them every success 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.