The NSW Government has announced a series of appointments to the boards of three state-owned corporations.

Sydney Water has a new director – Niall Blair. Mr Blair will become Sydney Water chair when current chair Grant King’s term expires.

Mr Blair has previously served as Minister for Primary Industries, Trade and Industry, and Minister for Regional Water. 

Mr Blair’s responsibilities will include helping Sydney Water manage the demand for new infrastructure to support housing and ensuring Sydneysiders’ water bills are low during the cost-of-living crisis, treasurer Daniel Mookhey said as he announced the appointments this week.

Meanwhile, Ashley Mason has been appointed chair of land and property developer Landcom. Mr Mason brings to the role extensive operations experience in government and across a range of Teir 1 construction companies.

Joining Mr Mason on the Landcom board is Craig Knowles – a former Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Urban Affairs, and Natural Resources.

While at Landcom, Mr Mason and Mr Knowles will support the corporation’s $800-million expansion while also driving its focus on developing key worker housing and build-to-rent projects.

And Kris Neill has been appointed to the board of the Port Authority of NSW. Ms Neill previously held the role of chair of Women’s Community Shelters, she was executive director at Macquarie Group, and a former chief of staff to Premier Bob Carr. Ms Niell’s extensive governance experience will help the Port Authority deliver major reform of freight transport in NSW.