Media release issued by acting Minister for Resources, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP

Experienced public servant and chief executive Ms Melissa Harris PSM will take up the role of Chief Executive Officer of Australia’s key government geoscience organisation, Geoscience Australia, in February.

Previously a senior executive with Land Use Victoria for more than six years, Ms Harris was appointed Chief Executive and Registrar of Titles in 2020. She received a Public Service Medal in 2023 for outstanding public service and transformation of geospatial, planning and land administration in Victoria.

Acting Minister for Resources the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP noted Ms Harris had more than 30 years of experience leading change and innovation in land administration and planning.

“In her new role, Ms Harris will oversee the Government’s record $3.4 billion investment through Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity, which will help find those economy-making discoveries that will support future generations of Australians,” Minister Rishworth said.

“Importantly, she will also drive Australia’s engagement with the United States-led Landsat Next satellite program, building on more than 50 years of collaboration with the United States on Earth observation and data.”

Minister Rishworth thanked outgoing CEO Dr James Johnson, who joined Geoscience Australia in 2006 after 20 years in the mineral and exploration industries to serve eight years as its CEO.

“Dr Johnson is a distinguished leader and I thank him for his leadership and dedication to the organisation,” Minister Rishworth said.

“Dr Johnson’s term as CEO will be remembered for his strong commitment to scientific excellence, his leadership in the application of scientific data for decision makers in government and industry and for building enduring links with stakeholders across the nation and world. I wish him well in his retirement.”