The Plant Industry Forum Committee (PIF) is pleased to announce that Nathan Hancock has returned as Chair in 2025. With his extensive experience in biosecurity, industry leadership, and market access, Nathan plays a key role in strengthening collaboration and advocacy across Australia’s plant industries.

Nathan is the Chief Executive Officer of Citrus Australia, where he leads efforts to support growers and exporters in biosecurity, sustainability, and trade. In addition to his role with PIFC, he has recently been appointed President of the Southern Hemisphere Association of Fresh Fruit Exporters (SHAFFE) and serves as Chair of the Horticulture Council Market Access Committee.

As PIFC Chair, Nathan will oversee the governance and strategic direction of the Plant Industry Forum, ensuring it remains an effective platform for industry members of Plant Health Australia (PHA) to collaborate on biosecurity priorities. The Committee plays a critical role in advocating for plant industries, facilitating discussions on emerging biosecurity issues, and connecting industry leaders with the PHA Executive Team.

Under Nathan’s leadership, PIFC will continue to:

• Strengthen partnerships across plant industries to drive biosecurity initiatives.
• Advocate for industry priorities and promote solutions to key challenges.
• Facilitate strategic discussions at PIF meetings, ensuring industry concerns are heard.
• Support national biosecurity efforts, working closely with PHA and other stakeholders.

The Committee, which meets quarterly, ensures that key actions from PIF discussions are implemented effectively and that national plant biosecurity policies align with industry needs.

The Committee comprises:

• Colin Bettles (Deputy Chair) – Grain Producers Australia
• Johnathon Davey – Melons Australia
• Paco Tovar – Australian Forest Products Association
• Jenny Treeby – Australian Table Grape Association
• Zarmeen Hassan – AUSVEG

Nathan’s expertise in biosecurity governance and trade policy makes him well-placed to guide the future direction of the Plant Industry Forum. His return as Chair continues to strengthen the PIF’s role as a trusted voice for Australia’s plant industries.

The Plant Industry Forum Committee congratulates Nathan on his appointment and looks forward to his leadership in advancing biosecurity and sustainability across the sector.