New Basin leadership as Sir Angus retires

The Albanese Government has announced the appointment of new Murray–Darling Basin Authority Board Chair Daryl Quinlivan AO following the retirement of Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC.

Mr Quinlivan has extensive experience in public service governance and water resource management, including as a former member of the Murray–Darling Basin Commission, Secretary of the former Department of Agriculture and NSW Agriculture Commissioner. His 4-year term starts on 23 December.

Sir Angus will retire on 22 December. Joining as Chair in 2020, Sir Angus has spearheaded the next stage of sustainable water management in Australia’s most important river system. His listening tours across the Basin and inclusive approach united stakeholders and helped bring trust back to the Murray–Darling Basin Plan.

Inaugural First Nations member Rene Woods has been appointed for another 4 years. Allison Mudford will join the board, replacing Susan Madden who has served for the maximum 8-year term.

The Murray–Darling Basin Authority works closely with the Basin’s governments and communities to maintain a healthy working Basin and implement the Basin Plan.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek:

“We’re determined to deliver the Murray–Darling Basin Plan in full and that’s why it’s so important that we have the right people for the job on the Authority Board.

“Sir Angus Houston has been an exceptional leader during his time as Chair. The MDBA as an organisation has never been stronger. He stood above partisan debate, engendering trust in the MDBA as it implements the Basin Plan. I thank him for his excellent service and wish him all the best.

“I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Daryl Quinlivan as incoming Chair. Mr Quinlivan brings a wealth of experience in water resource management and water markets to this critical role.

“I’d also like to congratulate Rene Woods and Allison Mudford, and thank Susan Madden for her expertise and insights over the past 8 years.”