In story headline: From Shearing Sheds to Boardrooms: Mick Veitch Appointed Chair of AgriFutures Australia

In Short

• New Leadership: Former NSW MP and Gundagai shearer Mick Veitch has been appointed Chairman of AgriFutures Australia for a three-year term.

• A Power Duo: Veitch’s appointment coincides with Brianna Casey AM stepping into the Managing Director role, marking a fresh leadership era for the organization.

• Grassroots Focus: The appointment is being hailed for bridging the gap between high-level policy and "on the ground" agricultural reality.

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon. Julie Collins MP, has announced the appointment of The Honourable Mick Veitch as the new Chairman of AgriFutures Australia. 

The three-year term commenced on January 11.

Mr Veitch is no stranger to the dust and demands of the local landscape. 

Before his 16-year career in the NSW Legislative Council, Mr Veitch grew up on a Gundagai farm and began his working life as a shearer.

Mr Veitch, who served as the Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Regional NSW during his time in government, indicated he is ready to get to work with the people on the ground.

“I am honoured to take on the position and am looking forward to working with the organisation’s stakeholders and levied and emerging industries,” he said.

The transition marks a significant shift in leadership for the organisation, with Brianna Casey AM also set to begin her tenure as Managing Director on Monday, January 19.

Outgoing Managing Director, John Harvey, welcomed the appointment, noting that Mr Veitch’s history in both the shed and in Parliament provides a unique perspective for the road ahead.

“Mick’s deep understanding of agriculture, regional dynamics and policy, coupled with his demonstrated leadership, positions AgriFutures Australia for even greater impact,” Mr Harvey said.

“Under Mick’s leadership, AgriFutures Australia will continue to advance strategic research and development that builds resilience, drives productivity, and unlocks new opportunities for Australian farmers, producers and rural communities.”

AgriFutures Australia oversees research and development for levied industries, including rice, honey bees and goats, as well as emerging industries.