Rebecca Fox will depart as Secretary of the Department of Regional NSW, as the department undergoes a rebrand and restructure.

Ms Fox was appointed in 2022.

The renamed Department of Primary and Industries and Regional Development will be led by Steve Orr, the current CEO of Local Land Services.

NSW Premier Chris Minns says the name change reflects an enhanced focus on biosecurity, agriculture, fisheries, forestry and mining.

There will also be new divisions within the Department, each with Deputy Secretaries reporting directly to Mr Orr.

Agriculture and Biosecurity will be grouped together to support the delivery of the Independent Commissioners for Agriculture and Biosecurity, and Fisheries and Forestry will also be combined.

 Broader Regional Coordination will return to the NSW Premier’s Department, with regional coordination teams to remain based in their current six regions and continuing to work with government agencies, local councils, community and industry partners.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said the changes will boost biosecurity and agriculture and help roll out the new $350 million regional development trust.

“I am looking forward to working alongside Steve Orr in his new role as Secretary,” she said in a statement.

“Steve is highly respected across rural and regional communities throughout NSW and will bring his considerable experience and knowledge along with a new focus on the pressing needs of the regions.”

Investment NSW goes to central government

It comes after the NSW government last week announced machinery of government changes that it says will bring the management of unsolicited investment proposals back to the Premier’s Department.

The transfer of Investment NSW and its industry, innovation, trade and investment functions to central government will also make it easier for investors to participate in state projects, Mr Minns said.

“The changes announced today bring structure and better co-ordination to important portfolios which together ensure our trade and investment is at the centre of government,” Mr Minns said in a statement on Friday.

In other changes, the Department of Enterprise, Investment and Trade (DEIT) will be renamed the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport.

Arts minister John Graham said the new department structure will support the creation of thriving creative industries and night-time economies across the state.

“The department will oversee the state’s first arts, culture and creative industries policy,” Mr Graham said.

“This is a key framework for investment in the creative industries and our vibrant cities agenda – creating more equitable places to work, live and play.”

Venues NSW, NSW Institute of Sport and the Office of Sport will come under the new  creative industries department, while the Chief Scientist and Engineer will join the Premier’s Department along with Investment NSW.

All remaining functions and entities that are currently part of DEIT will come under Creative Industries.

The changes come into effect on July 1.

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