Tomkinson to chair Future Health Research and Innovation Fund

Mining industry executive Rebecca Tomkinson has taken on a new role as chair of the Future Health Research and Innovation Fund advisory council, replacing John Van Der Wielen.

The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia chief executive will take over as chair of the fund, which aims to deliver millions in innovative research grants and opportunities.

Since the state government’s FHRI Fund’s inception four years ago, it has awarded more than $100 million in grants to 480 recipients.

Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson thanked Mr Van der Wielen for his vision and leadership over the past four years.

“Bringing to the table his significant business expertise, he established a governance model, advocated for investment in the health and medical research sector, and introduced a range of programs and initiatives directly benefiting research,” Mr Dawson said.

“The fund is now well placed for the future, thanks to Mr Van Der Wielen.

“I am confident Ms Tomkinson will take up the challenge and continue the Cook government’s vision for growing Western Australia’s world-class health, medical research and innovation sector.”

According to the state, a further $250 million in grants will be available over the next four years.