Published Yesterday at 02:30 PM

Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers
The Honourable Ann Leahy

New board appointments for Queensland Reconstruction Authority

  • The Crisafulli Government makes four new appointments for the Queensland Reconstruction Authority board.
  • Statewide representation speaks to the needs of rural and remote communities.
  • Queensland’s recovery and resilience reinforced with substantial experience. 

The Crisafulli Government has made four new board appointments for Queensland Reconstruction Authority - the State's lead disaster recovery and resilience agency.  

  • Chair: Jane McNamara
  • Member: Brigadier Cris Anstey (Retd)
  • Member: Gail Godwin-Smith
  • Member: Dr Kaylee Boccalatte 

The new appointments to Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s advisory board are for three years, up to and including 31 August 2028.  

Queensland remains the most disaster affected state in Australia and during the 2024-25 disaster season was impacted by a record 17 separate disaster events. 

Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the new board appointments would deliver a renewed focus on delivering real outcomes for Queenslanders. 

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to building stronger, more resilient communities, not just responding to disasters, but being well-prepared for them,” Minister Leahy said. 

“Queensland faces some of the toughest natural conditions in the country and the lived experiences of our new QRA board members will strengthen the state’s recovery and resilience going forward. 

“Their shared understanding of the needs of rural, regional and urban Queensland, including at the frontline of disaster management, will be invaluable for us moving forward. 

“Together the members represent the vast landscapes of our state, and by coming together they will allow us to continue standing tall in times of crisis. 

“As our State Disaster Coordinator, I’m also pleased to confirm the reappointment of Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy to the QRA board. 

“I acknowledge the work of outgoing members and thank them for their contributions.” 

Queensland Reconstruction Authority CEO Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd) welcomed the opportunity to work with the new board. 

“QRA has an enormous responsibility to Queenslanders, to not only guide disaster recovery but to build future resilience to extreme weather,” Mr Ellwood said. 

“Our new members will take on these roles with the dedication that’s been a hallmark of their respective careers. 

“I give my sincere thanks to departing QRA Board Chair Katarina Carroll and Members Dr Robert Glasser, Dr Aysin Dedekorkut-Howes, Greg Hallam, and Lynette McLaughlin. 

“Together we will keep working every day to create stronger, safer and more resilient Queensland communities.” 

Since its establishment in early 2011, QRA has managed more than $29 billion in disaster recovery and resilience works, with a current active program of around $14.2 billion. 

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Howard, 0400 002 676