The Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) Board will be strengthened with the addition of two newly appointed members, Ms Shirley In’t Veld from Western Australia and Ms Lisa Hewitt from Queensland.
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said members of the NAIF Board represent a wide range of experience, and bring skills in finance, accounting, economics and infrastructure.
“The addition of these two outstanding women onto the NAIF Board has reaffirmed the depth and diversity of expertise across the Board, which will support the significant reforms and expanding remit of the NAIF,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Ms In’t Veld’s 30 years of experience across the mining, renewables and energy sectors, along with Ms Hewitt’s extensive knowledge of agribusiness, will be invaluable to the NAIF.”
“Northern Australia is a diverse and vibrant region that is rich with opportunities and financing through the NAIF will continue to drive growth, making these opportunities a reality.”
Special Envoy for Northern Australia, Queensland Senator Susan McDonald said the two appointees’ experiences will support the NAIF to drive investment and growth in Northern Australia.
“Realising the vision of a stronger north requires a long-term commitment and united efforts across government, industry and the community,” Senator McDonald said.
“The wealth of understanding that Ms In’t Veld and Ms Hewitt bring will greatly benefit northern Australia.”
Ms In’t Veld has had significant experience as a Board director including APA Group, Alumina Ltd, Develop Global Ltd and Karora Resources. Ms In’t Veld is also a member of the Australian Government’s Takeovers Panel – a peer review body that regulates corporate control transactions.
She has previously held senior roles in Western Australia including the managing director role of Verve Energy and senior positions in Alcoa Australia.
Ms Hewitt is a Regional Executive with ANZ for North Queensland and her experience includes managing a large portfolio of high-risk agribusiness and commercial files including major agricultural and infrastructure projects.
