The New South Wales State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is undergoing a leadership reshuffle, with the appointment of a new deputy chair and two independent board members aimed at strengthening oversight and strategic direction.
Helen Rowell has been named deputy chair, stepping into the role following the departure of Nancy Milne OAM. Rowell, who joined the board in July 2024, also leads the Compulsory Third Party Premium Committee. Her background includes serving as deputy chair of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and holding board positions with the Australian Retirement Trust and Mental Health Australia.
Joining Rowell on the SIRA board are Lynelle Briggs AO and The Hon Dr John Della Bosca AM, both appointed as independent members.
NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said the appointments are expected to support SIRA’s ability to meet its regulatory obligations.
“I would like to congratulate Ms Rowell, Ms Briggs and Dr Della Bosca on their appointments,” Dip said. “Their collective expertise will strengthen governance and guide SIRA to better serve the people of NSW.”
Briggs has held senior roles across multiple areas of the Australian public service, including health, transport, and social policy. She is a former chief executive of Medicare, served as deputy secretary at the Department of Transport and Regional Services, and was the Australian public service commissioner. She also acted as a commissioner in the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
Della Bosca brings experience in disability advocacy and state politics. He previously led the “Every Australian Counts” campaign for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and currently chairs Family Drug Support Australia, Disability Intermediaries Association, and Grow Australia. He is a former senior minister in the NSW government.
Dib said the new appointments would help guide the organisation in meeting its regulatory responsibilities.
“The addition of our new members and deputy chair will create a more dynamic, well-rounded Board that will be well-positioned to guide SIRA through its next phase of growth,” SIRA board chair Nicholas Whitlam said.
