Dr Gabrielle Vivian-Smith

Australian Chief Plant Protection Officer, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Dr Gabrielle Vivian-Smith was appointed Chief Plant Protection Officer of Australia in 2021 after an extended period of acting in the role. She is Australia’s Delegate at the International Plant Protection Convention. Her work aims to protect Australia’s plant-based industries and the natural environment from harmful exotic plant pests and diseases. Such pests and diseases, if allowed to establish can permanently reduce the productivity of our land and damage our natural heritage.

Dr Vivian-Smith has worked in biosecurity for 20 years including managing complex, high profile biosecurity and scientific programs and portfolios in science, operational response and policy at state and national levels. Gabrielle was previously Victoria’s Chief Plant Health Officer from 2013 to 2017.  From 2001 to 2013 Gabrielle led various Queensland Government biosecurity programs in invasive species research, policy and operational programs. Gabrielle’s formal qualifications include a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons), a Graduate Diploma in Horticulture and a PhD in Ecology.

Gabrielle is a member of this year’s conference program committee.