Troy Williams appointed new NFF chief executive officer

The National Farmers’ Federation has a new chief executive, with the appointment of seasoned chief executive Troy Williams to replace the outgoing Tony Mahar.

The National Farmers’ Federation has a new chief executive, with the appointment of seasoned chief executive Troy Williams to replace the outgoing Tony Mahar.

Mr Williams most recently served as chief executive of the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia since 2018, and has worked in chief executive roles across the healthcare, building and property sectors for 20 years.

“It’s an honour to be appointed as the NFF chief executive, an organisation with a rich legacy. I’m looking forward to strengthening the NFF’s connection with its members to ensure their priorities are at the heart of our advocacy,” Mr Williams said.

“I’m eager to engage with stakeholders – from parliament to the paddock – to ensure agriculture is not only heard but prioritised in the national policy debate. This year will be pivotal in shaping policies that secure the future of Australian farming and rural communities.”

NFF president David Jochinke said Mr Williams had been a “champion for businesses in highly regulated and trade-exposed industries, addressing issues ranging from product regulation and international trade agreements to workforce planning and skills development”.

“These are exactly the challenges faced by the businesses our members represent, and Troy’s experience will be invaluable in addressing them,” he said.

Mr Williams’ interest in regional Australia isn’t new, last week calling for a serious policy shift to fix the “brain drain” that he said was siphoning the brightest young minds out of regional Australia.

An avid shooter and dirt bike rider, he was also a reservist in the Royal Australian Infantry Corps for seven years.

The appointment is effective as of March 3 2025.