Dr Ken Henry AC remains frank and fearless in his calls for reform, several years after leading an independent statutory review of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act and finding it “not fit for purpose”.
The NSW Government has now committed to the most significant reform to the state’s land management framework in over 20 years - an opportunity to reverse the trajectory of environmental decline and put in place a whole-of-landscape approach that recognises the role of natural capital in community well-being, agricultural productivity, climate change resilience and respect for Aboriginal peoples’ connections to Country.
Dr Henry is the Chair of the Nature Finance Council, the Australian Climate and Biodiversity Foundation and Wildlife Recovery Australia, and our first lunch speaker for 2026.
With a distinguished career that included ten years as Secretary to the Treasury, he has a unique understanding of the critical role our environment plays in the health of the economy and our wellbeing.
Dr Henry will describe the need and opportunities presented by reform to protect and restore our State’s highest value biodiversity. He will talk to the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists new report Blueprint for a Healthy Country and Thriving Regions that provides a roadmap for change and recognises the critical role of landowners and managers in restoring and protecting our landscape.
He served as the Secretary to the Treasury from 2001 to 2011. He chaired the Howard Government’s tax review taskforce in 1997-98, the Rudd Government’s tax review published in 2010, and the Gillard Government’s White Paper on Australia in the Asian Century (2011 and 2012). In 2022-23, he led the independent statutory review of the Biodiversity Conservation Act (NSW).
Dr Henry was the Chair of National Australia Bank from 2015 to 2019 (non-executive director from 2011 to 2019) and a non-executive director of the ASX and affiliated entities from 2012 to 2022.
He's a recipient of the Centenary Medal and was made a Companion of the Order of Australia in 2007.
Bookings for this lunch will close on Wednesday 25 February 2026. Corporate members may book unlimited guests at the member price. Other members may book one guest at the member price. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
For any questions, contact bookings@nswfarmwriters.org.au
The NSW Rural Press Club is delighted to welcome Dr Sally Auld, Chief Economist at National Australia Bank, for our next lunch.
Sally will share her outlook on the Australian economy, the forces most likely to shape regional prosperity in the years ahead, and the key signals to watch as global conditions continue to evolve.
Sally joins us at a pivotal moment for regional Australia. With shifting global demand, evolving trade dynamics, climate‑driven pressures, and ongoing workforce and productivity challenges, rural industries are navigating a landscape of both uncertainty and opportunity.
With a career spanning more than two decades at the forefront of global financial markets, Sally is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most insightful and influential economic thinkers. Her ability to translate complex economic forces into clear, practical implications for businesses, communities, and policymakers has made her a trusted voice across the country.
Sally brings deep expertise in macroeconomics, financial market strategy, and the structural trends shaping Australia’s economic future. Before joining NAB, Sally was the Chief Investment Officer at JBWere, building a reputation for rigorous analysis and a grounded, forward‑looking perspective.
Please join us on Wednesday 1 April 2026 as we hear from NAB Chief Economist, Sally Auld.
Bookings for this lunch will close on 27 March 2026. Corporate members may book unlimited guests at the member price. Other members may book one guest at the member price. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
The New South Wales Rural Press Club has a great line-up of events and speakers in 2026. Add this date to your calendar, and keep an eye out for emails with details as we get closer.
Our lunches are held at the Sydney Marriott Circular Quay, 30 Pitt Street Sydney.
Bookings for this lunch will close on 23 April 2026. Corporate members may book unlimited guests at the member price. Other members may book one guest at the member price. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
Bookings for this lunch will close on 1 June 2026. Corporate members may book unlimited guests at the member price. Other members may book one guest at the member price. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
King & Wood Mallesons are once again hosting Agribuzz during Vivid Sydney.
Agribuzz is a smart casual event providing professional networking and development opportunities in a relaxed atmosphere.
It provides the opportunity for our members and friends to exchange business intelligence and ideas over drinks and canapés, enjoy a brief presentation, and mingle with their peers. Those establishing their careers can talk to agribusiness leaders over a drink while those on the look-out for talent can meet aspiring leaders-in-the-making.
Registrations for this event will close on 8 June 2026.
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