Molecular geneticist Dr Marion Healy has been appointed as NSW’s biosecurity commissioner as the government steps up efforts to combat pests, diseases, weeds and contaminants in the agriculture sector.

The government has also announced the appointment of Rachel Connell as the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Biosecurity in the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; while Kate Lorimer-Ward will serve as CEO of Local Land services.

The Local Land Services State Board will be chaired by agribusiness owner and manager Tess Herbert.

Dr Healy has been interim biosecurity commissioner since June 2023 and brings more than two decades of experience in senior roles across government and industry.

As Independent Biosecurity Commissioner she will advise the state government on its $945.7 million biosecurity protection program announced in the state budget.

The 2024-25 state budget committed the funding over four years for a range of programs including eradicating fire ants, managing Varroa mites and boosting surveillance and preventative capabilities against biosecurity risks.

Pledge to work with farming communities

Chris Minns said it was good to see professional woman appointed to roles that supported biosecurity and primary industries across the state.

“I’ve visited country towns all across the state to hear firsthand about the issues facing regional NSW – whether it’s Red Fire Ants in the north, or feral pigs in the Riverina,” Premier Chris Minns said.

“We know that we cannot address these issues without working directly with local communities, and these appointments will play a vital role in ensuring that voices on the ground are heard and reflected in our government’s approach to biosecurity.”

 Dr Healy said collaboration and coordination will provide the key to biosecurity success.

“I have spent many years working to protect our industries and environment from pests and diseases and I very much look forward to working hand in hand with government, land holders and communities utilising the strong and valuable relationships I have built during my career,” she said.

“I know how hard farmers work to fight invasive pests and weeds on their land, I will work to ensure they are not doing this alone.”

It’s estimated that weeds and invasive species cost the state’s agriculture sector almost $2 billion a year.

The government has also appointed 11 new Natural Capital Advisors to provide support and tailored advice to farmers and land managers regarding investment in natural assets on land such as, soil, trees, water, plants and ecosystems.

The program will run by Local Land Services, which following the appointments announced on Wednesday will be expanded state wide.