Natural Hazards Research Australia (the Centre) welcomed two new directors to its board at its Annual General Meeting held on Thursday 27 November 2025.
Centre CEO Andrew Gissing said new directors Dr Robert Glasser and Dr Arnagretta Hunter bring a wealth of expertise and experience to help guide the organisation as it continues to implement its Strategic Plan.
“As we welcome our new directors, we also acknowledge the outstanding contributions of our outgoing directors.
“Dr Greg Ayres and Doug Smith finished up after six and nine years respectively of exemplary service, overseeing a period of significant transformation and growth.”
With Greg completing two terms on the board and Doug three, Andrew said the outgoing directors had helped navigate the establishment and growth of the Centre with exceptional skill and commitment.
“During their tenure, the Centre achieved substantial growth with almost 100 core research projects now underway and $34 million in funding allocated, showcasing strategic vision and investment in safer futures for all Australians.
“Our Strategic Plan 2021–2031, shaped by their valuable input, continues to drive our aim of safer, more resilient and sustainable communities in the face worsening risk from natural hazards.”
Over their time on the board, Doug and Greg have watched the Centre evolve from a focus on bushfire to a broader research effort that tackles a wide range of hazards facing Australia.
“What stands out is the Centre’s commitment to understanding the lasting impacts on people and communities, not just the immediate event — and I hope future research continues to build on this strong foundation,” said Doug.
On behalf of the Centre, its staff and Participants, Andrew extended heartfelt thanks to Greg and Doug for their remarkable contributions as directors.
“We wish them all the best in their future endeavours,” he said.
New board members
Dr Robert Glasser
An international leader in climate change, disaster risk reduction and humanitarian action, Dr Robert Glasser has extensive executive experience at the highest levels of the United Nations, CARE International, the Australian Government and leading think tanks.
Dr Glasser has proven ability to lead institutional reform, develop global policy frameworks, mobilise resources and build partnerships across governments, civil society and the private sector.
An Honorary Professor at Australian National University and Senior Fellow with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Dr Glasser previously served as Independent Chair for the Review of Australia’s National Natural Disaster Governance Arrangements (2023–2024).
Dr Glasser is widely published on the topics of climate and security, systemic risks and disaster resilience.
Dr Arnagretta Hunter
An experienced physician and cardiologist, Dr Hunter brings experience from health care, climate policy and global catastrophic risk.
Dr Hunter is skilled in translating complex research into policy outcomes, with a particular focus on disaster resilience, community health and wellbeing, and understanding risk, resilience and reward.
She currently serves as chair the ACT Climate Council and Global Shield Australia and has been the Human Futures Fellow at the Australian National University for the past five years.
Bringing strategic governance experience and understanding of stakeholder engagement across government, academia, and community sectors, Dr Hunter was raised on a farm in regional Victoria and has a deep love for this continent and its ancient Indigenous heritage and is a strong advocate for our human future.
Professor of Practice at Monash Sustainable Development Institute and Chair of Birrarung Council. Chris has extensive experience in the water industry and government, including leadership roles with Melbourne Water.