Siobhan Toohill, the new independent chair of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia. Image supplied.
Sustainable Winegrowing Australia (SWA) has announced the appointment of Siobhan Toohill as the independent chair, a decision that it said signifies “an important milestone in the program’s governance evolution and future strategic direction”.
“I’m delighted to take on the role of chair for Sustainable Winegrowing Australia. The program plays a critical role in supporting the sector’s sustainability ambitions, and I look forward to working with industry to strengthen its impact, accessibility and global credibility,” she said.
SWA stated that Toohill brings extensive executive leadership experience in sustainability strategy, risk management, involvement in shaping industry frameworks, and tools across climate, nature and social impact.
“Siobhan’s appointment as independent chair represents a significant step forward for Sustainable Winegrowing Australia. Her expertise in sustainability leadership and system transformation will be invaluable as the program enters this next phase of governance maturity and strategic impact,” said Lee McLean, chief executive officer for Australian Grape & Wine Inc.
Dr Mark Krstic, managing director for the Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI), said that the appointment “confirms the sector’s commitment to strong, independent governance and credible sustainability leadership”.
“Sustainable Winegrowing Australia and its members will benefit from her knowledge and guidance across climate, nature and social impact,” he said.
Her position is the first part of the governance reforms revealed in December 2025, which instituted the transition to an independent chair, skills-based board, and dedicated executive officer, which SWA said aims to “strengthen oversight, responsiveness and long-term impact across the Australian grape and wine sector”.
Toohill is collaborating with the Australian Grape and Wine, AWRI, and Wine Australia to finalise the appointment of the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia Advisory Board, with recruitment having commenced for an executive officer for the program.
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