New era for ricegrowers

In a statement this week, RGA said Ms Davey brings extensive experience in agriculture, water policy, stakeholder engagement and national leadership to the organisation.

It said Ms Davey is well known across regional Australia through her service as a Senator for NSW between 2019 and 2025 and as Deputy Leader of The Nationals from 2022 to 2025.

Prior to her parliamentary career, she built a strong reputation in the agricultural sector, holding senior roles with Murray Irrigation and serving on the board of the NSW Irrigators' Council.

Her career has also included work in communications, public relations, agribusiness and natural resource management.

Raising her family in the Southern Riverina, Ms Davey has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing irrigated agriculture and rural industries.

RGA said her longstanding involvement in water policy and advocacy makes her exceptionally well placed to lead the organisation as it continues to champion the interests of Australian rice growers.

Ms Davey has said she is “excited to be taking on this opportunity”.

“The rice industry is not without its challenges but has an incredible story and a bright future if we can get the policy settings right,” she said.

Ms Davey said Australia was already leading the world in water use efficiency, and ongoing research and development is making progress to rescue water further without reducing quality or quantity.

“(There are) exciting times indeed,” she said.

Mr Kruger said he was pleased to see the organisation enter its next chapter under Ms Davey's leadership.

"The RGA has a proud history of representing rice growers and helping shape a strong future for our industry," Mr Kruger said.

"Perin brings a wealth of experience across agriculture, water policy and regional Australia, along with a genuine understanding of the communities we serve.

"The rice industry has always succeeded by adapting to change, embracing innovation and working together. I am confident Perin will build on that legacy and provide strong leadership for the organisation and our members in the years ahead."

RGA president Peter Herrmann said Ms Davey's appointment reflected the board's commitment to ensuring growers remain at the centre of the organisation.

"The RGA exists because rice growers need a strong, united voice, and that responsibility is as important today as it has ever been," Mr Herrmann said.

"Perin understands that effective advocacy starts with listening to growers and understanding the challenges and opportunities facing farming families and regional communities.

"Our role is not only to represent growers today, but to help create an industry that future generations can be proud to be part of. We are delighted to welcome Perin and look forward to working with her as we continue building a strong future for the Australian rice industry."

For his work with RGA, Mr Kruger was presented with an Honorary Councillor award at the RiceConnect conference last week.

“Graeme led the organisation through a period of significant transformation and growth, overseeing constitutional reforms, a major rebrand, strategic reviews and the strengthening of the Association's governance and advocacy capabilities,’ his citation for the honour said.

“He also played a key role in industry initiatives, including research and development planning and the establishment of Rice Breeding Australia.

“Under his leadership, the RGA strengthened its position as a respected and influential voice for rice growers and was recognised as Small Association of the Year in 2022.

“His dedication to growers, commitment to industry progress and collaborative work with partners across the rice sector have left a lasting legacy for the Association and the broader Australian rice industry.”