Stakeholder Consultation re: Changes to AWRI Board Composition and Appointment

The Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI) has been considering some changes to its Board composition and appointment processes over the past 18 months and has conducted a number of initial consultations with industry.

Input is now being sought from stakeholders prior to the changes being implemented, with an industry feedback period open until the 12th November 2021.

A summary of the proposed changes is as follows:

• Introduce a position elected by Grape Research Levy payers (Grape Research Levy payers are not currently eligible to vote in AWRI Board elections).
• Reduce the number of positions elected by Levy payers from six to four, including one position nominated and elected by small, medium and large category Wine Grapes Levy payers and one position nominated and elected by Grape Research Levy payers.
• Increase the maximum number of Special Qualification Director (SQD) positions from four to six, to ensure an appropriate balance of skills and diversity (including geography).
• Introduce a Nominations Committee, made up of a mix of independent members and current Directors, to assist in the selection and reappointment of SQDs.
• Incorporate an open recruitment process for the appointment of SQDs, seeking expressions of interest to address identified gaps in the Board’s skills and diversity.
• Introduce a gender diversity quota for non-executive Director positions, specifying a minimum of at least four Directors of either gender.

If you would like to receive more information, ask questions or provide feedback, please contact AWRI Company Secretary, Shiralee Dodd, at Shiralee.Dodd@awri.com.au prior to the 12th November 2021.

• Topics:

• Wine / Viticulture
• Farming