General Manager Policy and Industry Relations

With more than two decades of experience in the agricultural sector she brings a wealth of knowledge in government relations, policy advice, management and leadership. Tanya’s
career has seen her develop expertise in agricultural policy, strategic leadership and advocacy. 

After moving from the family farm to complete a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Science, she went to work for the Victorian Farmers Federation. For twelve years she developed her policy expertise across roles for the grains and intensive livestock sectors. Building an understanding of the legislative frameworks and industry mechanisms governing agriculture. Serving and supporting the Victorian farming sectors and regional communities. Her combination of practical industry knowledge and stakeholder engagement expertise led to her appointment as Agriculture Advisor to the Minister for Agriculture from April 2013 till December 2014. This role required taking responsibility for working with the department and stakeholders across the full Agricultural portfolio as well as the Fisheries, Forestry and Game sectors.

In 2015 she established her own consultancy company undertaking work as the Executive Officer for the Grains Industry National Research, Development and Extension strategy and undertaking specialist policy and advocacy work for a range of organisation within the  grains and horticultural sectors, including leading Grain Producers Australia’s policy, representative and advocacy work for eight years. Across the years Tanya has been nominated to a broad range of Government and industry committees as well as taking on volunteer roles within areas of interest such as her public school’s School Council, education, fundraising and events committees. She has also been a founding member of organisations such as the Victorian Grower Group Alliance, built to support effective collaboration between farming systems research groups, RDCs, producers and government.

Her contribution to the agricultural sector throughout her 25-year career clearly demonstrate her commitment to advancing the agricultural industry and supporting key stakeholders. Tanya’s expertise and focus on leadership and team management, strategic policy, submissions development and advocacy has built the APL Policy and Industry Engagement team’s capability to foster a consultative and collaborative approach to working with industry.