Join the Panel of Trustees – Agricultural Scientific Collections Trust
NSW Government – Cabinet Office

• Part Time
• Location: All of NSW

In accordance with the Classification and Remuneration Framework for NSW Boards and Committees. Meal, accommodation and travel reimbursements will also be available.

The NSW Government is seeking experienced and committed individuals to join the Agricultural Scientific Collections Trust (ASCT). The Trust is currently completely vacant, and we are inviting applications to fill multiple trustee positions, including the critical role of Chair. This is a unique opportunity to help re-establish and guide the governance of NSW’s important agricultural scientific collections.

About the Trust

The NSW Agricultural Scientific Collections Trust holds assets of scientific or historical significance, related primarily to the study of agriculture and forestry, and oversees the preservation, management, and strategic use of NSW’s agricultural scientific collections.

Trust assets currently include the NSW Plant Pathology & Mycology Herbarium and the NSW Insect & Mite Collection. These collections hold over 500,000 specimens, acquired through 130 years’ worth of surveillance, diagnostics and research specimens from NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and external stakeholders, as well as internationally sourced reference collections. These include physical specimens of fungi, bacteria, viruses, insects and mites, stored as preserved specimens and living cultures at the Orange Agricultural Research Institute in Orange, NSW.

Trustees provide governance, expert advice, and strategic guidance to ensure these collections continue to serve research, industry, and the wider community.

Roles and Responsibilities

Chair:

• Lead the activities of the Trust and facilitate effective decision-making.
• Ensure the Trust operates within relevant statutory, policy, and governance frameworks.
• Foster collaboration among Trustees and with Ministers, government agencies, and stakeholders.
• Oversee the performance and development of the Trust and its members.

Trustees:

• Support the Trust in performing its functions and achieving its strategic objectives.
• Attend meetings and actively contribute to discussions and decision-making.
• Provide advice, research, or consultation to inform Trust activities.
• Collaborate with the Chair, fellow Trustees, and stakeholders while upholding transparency, integrity, and accountability.

We Are Looking For

• Expertise or experience in agricultural science, collections management, biosecurity, or related fields.
• High-level governance, advisory, or leadership experience.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and analytical skills.
• Commitment to NSW Government values and public sector accountability.

Time Commitment

Trustees, including the Chair, are expected to attend scheduled meetings (3 per year) and participate in strategic discussions or consultations as required. Trustees term is four years with the possibility of subsequent reappointment.

How to Apply

Applicants are invited to submit a cover letter (2 pages) and CV (5 pages) demonstrating their relevant experience and skills. Applications should address the criteria outlined above.

For enquiries, please contact Will Cuddy, A/Director Animal & Plant Biosecurity Research & Diagnostics via will.cuddy@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 02 4640 6515

Applications close: Monday 2 March 2026, 11:55pm

For more information about the Trust and its work, please click  ASCT Trustees Resignations and nomination.pdf

This is an excellent opportunity for experienced professionals to make a meaningful contribution to NSW’s agricultural scientific research and collections management.