The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) has announced their new chair, Atlassian co-founder and board director Scott Farquhar.
As a founding member of the TCA, Farquhar will succeed Robyn Denholm who is also the Chairman of Tesla Motors' board of directors, as Chair of Australia’s peak industry body for technology.
The TCA represents tech companies big or small as well as firms in the broader tech ecosystem, including venture capitalists, advisers and tech-enabled businesses outside the tech sector.
The transition is set to take effect in late March with Farquhar leading the engagement across government and industry to advance policies that foster innovation, investment, and long-term growth in Australia’s tech sector, while Denholm will remain with the TCA as a Board member.
Farquhar is one of Australia’s most successful tech entrepreneurs and the country's 6th richest person, stepping into the role at a time of increasing opportunity and responsibility for the sector.
In 2024, the Financial Review Rich List estimated Farquhar’s wealth at $22.9 billion.
The new chair emphasised the principles of the TCA saying it “was founded on the belief that technology is a fundamental driver of economic growth, job creation, and national competitiveness.”
“I’m proud to take on the role of Chair and help continue the work we started in advocating for a thriving tech ecosystem,” he added.
Farquhar assured the public that he is looking forward to working closely with industry leaders and the government “to ensure Australia remains a world-class tech powerhouse.”
“As we look ahead, there is enormous potential to expand our advocacy in critical areas like digital infrastructure, consumer energy, and emerging technology,” he said.
Denholm reflected on her tenure in the role, saying she is incredibly proud of her achievements and “Leading the Tech Council of Australia as inaugural Chair has been a privilege.”
“Over the past three and a half years, we have worked to establish the tech sector as a critical pillar of Australia’s economy, securing bipartisan support for key initiatives and shaping policies that enable Australian innovation to thrive,” she said.
The company’s CEO Damian Kassabgi also thanked Denholm for her leadership which he said “set the foundation for the tech industry to be recognised as a major economic force, shaping policy and investment that supports innovation and job growth.”
Kassabgi also expressed delight in welcoming Farquhar into his new role.
“As one of Australia’s greatest founders and a globally recognised tech success story, Scott’s leadership will be invaluable in shepherding the industry forward and ensuring the TCA continues to champion policies that unlock Australia’s tech potential,” said Kassabgi.
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