Interim CEO, Dr Chris Parker, has been in the role for the past few months, but will take over the reins on a more permanent basis from November 13.

The initial appointment is for a five year term.

Dr Parker is a qualified veterinarian and former farmer with extensive experience in a range of private and government sector roles.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Luke Hartsuyker, said the appointment followed on from a comprehensive, merit-based recruitment process.

“Dr Parker is a demonstrated leader who brings a wealth of experience, deep industry engagement and proven credibility with government and APVMA stakeholders to this role,” Minister Hartsuyker said.

“He has been able to achieve a significant amount during his short time acting as interim CEO, and I look forward to him progressing this work.

“Dr Parker is putting in place measures to improve APVMA’s performance, which will result in improved access to agricultural and veterinary chemicals for Australia’s farmers.

“Dr Parker will provide new leadership and ideas for Australia’s agricultural and veterinary chemical regulator.

“He will continue his work delivering the relocation of the APVMA to Armidale, helping build a Centre of Agricultural Excellence at the University of New England.

“This will deliver new jobs to the region, increase the availability of skilled employees, and increase the diversity and resilience of the region’s economy.”

During the 2016 election the government committed to establishing Armidale as a Centre of Agricultural Excellence building on the presence of the University of New England (UNE) Armidale and its specialised agricultural research centres.

The APVMA received 450 applications for positions advertised in May and June 2017.