Former Queensland premier appointed chair of Advanced Materials and Battery Council

Industry lobby group the Advanced Materials and Battery Council (AMBC) has rejigged its leadership team, with former Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (pictured) appointed its new chair.

In a statement Monday, the AMBC said the former premier brings “proven executive leadership in policy delivery and large-scale industrial development” to the role.

Outgoing AMBC Chair Craig Nicol – who is also CEO and founder of Graphene Manufacturing Group – said his time had been “an honour” and occurred at a time of “significant growth for Australia's advanced materials industry”.

Nicol added: “I'm thrilled to welcome Annastacia as Chair – her experience driving large-scale energy and industrial transformation will be invaluable – and Lynnard as CEO, who brings the practical, collaborative approach that will help our members succeed.”

Lynnard Cucksey’s was appointed Interim CEO, effective immediately, replacing Quentin Hill.

Palaszczuk was elected to state parliament in 2006 and left in 2023. The former Labor MP served as premier for the last eight of those years.

“AMBC's mission is national – unlocking Australian capability from minerals to advanced materials to batteries,” Palaszczuk said. 

“I'm excited to work with our members, governments, and investors to turn opportunity into projects, exports, and skilled jobs across the country.”

Palaszczuk is to appear at the AMBC’s Australian Battery Day (ABD) seminar at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on October 21, and will deliver formal remarks at the ABD Gala Dinner the following evening.

Picture: public domain