Geoscience Australia Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Geoscience Australia has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, operations, and finance.

Driven by scientific advancement, Geoscience Australia provides trusted insights on the nation's geology and geography, utilizing science and technology to enhance understanding of the Earth and foster innovation for a resilient future.

Leadership Roles at Geoscience Australia

  • Chief Executive Officer - Melissa Harris
  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Lucy Byrnes
  • Chief of Corporate Division, Chief Operating Officer - Trent Rawlings
  • Acting Chief Information Officer - Simon Edmondson
  • Melissa Harris - Chief Executive Officer

    Melissa Harris, the Chief Executive Officer at Geoscience Australia, directs the organization's overarching strategy and vision. This leadership role involves guiding the application of science and technology to deepen the understanding of Australia's geology and geography. Harris ensures Geoscience Australia delivers trusted insights that benefit diverse sectors across the nation. Overseeing critical functions such as earthquake monitoring, satellite data products, and natural resource mapping, the Chief Executive Officer champions initiatives that support sustainable development. Melissa Harris empowers communities and fosters innovation, driving the organization's commitment to a resilient and prosperous future for Australia. The strategic direction set by Harris ensures the organization remains at the forefront of public sector geoscience.

    Lucy Byrnes - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Lucy Byrnes, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Geoscience Australia, supports the financial health and strategic resource allocation of the organization. This executive assists in managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility across all geoscience initiatives. Byrnes contributes to the organization's ability to provide trusted insights by ensuring financial resources are effectively deployed for earthquake monitoring, satellite data products, and natural resource mapping. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer plays a key role in supporting sustainable development and fostering innovation through sound financial management. Lucy Byrnes ensures compliance with financial regulations and contributes to the long-term prosperity and resilience of Geoscience Australia. This financial oversight is critical for the organization's continued success in understanding the Earth.

    Trent Rawlings - Chief of Corporate Division, Chief Operating Officer

    Trent Rawlings, the Chief of Corporate Division, Chief Operating Officer at Geoscience Australia, orchestrates the operational backbone of the organization. This dual role encompasses managing corporate services and overseeing day-to-day operations to ensure efficient delivery of geoscience insights. Rawlings directs the implementation of strategies that enhance understanding of the Earth, supporting sectors across Australia through services like earthquake monitoring and comprehensive mapping. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that Geoscience Australia's resources are optimized for sustainable development and innovation. Trent Rawlings drives operational excellence, facilitating the organization's mission to empower communities and foster a resilient future. This leadership ensures seamless integration of scientific endeavors with administrative functions, maintaining high standards in all organizational activities.
    Trent Rawlings

    Simon Edmondson - Acting Chief Information Officer

    Simon Edmondson, the Acting Chief Information Officer at Geoscience Australia, manages the organization's technology infrastructure and digital transformation efforts. This executive oversees the implementation and maintenance of IT systems that support Geoscience Australia's core functions, including data collection, analysis, and dissemination. Edmondson ensures that technology solutions enhance the organization's ability to provide trusted insights on Australia's geology and geography. The Acting Chief Information Officer plays a crucial part in leveraging science and technology to improve understanding of the Earth. Simon Edmondson drives initiatives related to satellite data products and digital mapping, directly contributing to sustainable development goals. This leadership ensures robust data management and secure access to vital geoscience information for all stakeholders.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Geoscience Australia Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Geoscience Australia?
    Geoscience Australia is led by Melissa Harris (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lucy Byrnes (Deputy Chief Financial Officer) and Trent Rawlings (Chief of Corporate Division, Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Geoscience Australia’s executive team?
    The executive team of Geoscience Australia includes leaders such as Melissa Harris (Chief Executive Officer), Lucy Byrnes (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Trent Rawlings (Chief of Corporate Division, Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Geoscience Australia have?
    Geoscience Australia has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Geoscience Australia’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Geoscience Australia includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Corporate Division, Chief Operating Officer, Acting Chief Information Officer.