AusBiotech welcomes Elizabeth Rex from CSL as Board observer

AusBiotech’s Board of Directors welcomes Elizabeth Rex, Head of Corporate Affairs at CSL, as a Board Observer.

Elizabeth is a senior corporate affairs executive with more than 25 years’ experience leading corporate affairs and communications functions across complex, highly regulated ASX-listed and global organisations. She has served as a trusted adviser to CEOs, Boards and executive teams, guiding companies in many different sectors through transformation, market scrutiny and leadership transition.

Elizabeth is currently based at CSL’s corporate headquarters in Melbourne where she leads a team which spans corporate communications, government relations, media relations and brand and reputation functions. She is also involved in CSL’s relationship with external stakeholders including partners, patients, research institutions, governments and regulators.

Previously Elizabeth led corporate affairs at Australian property company Stockland, helping to support a new CEO and strategic repositioning, strengthening brand narrative, stakeholder engagement and ESG communications. Prior to this, she held senior leadership roles at AGL, Ampol, AbbVie and GE, building high-performing teams and delivering integrated communications across investor relations, government engagement, media and issues management.

Comments from Elizabeth Rex:

“I am honoured and thrilled to be joining the AusBiotech Board at what is a critical juncture for the life sciences ecosystem in Australia. Both CSL and I are passionate about helping to create enduring impact for the patients we serve, many of whom are battling rare and serious diseases. Our mission is to help increase access for patients to existing and new breakthrough medicines that improve their quality of life, boost public health and reduce the burden of disease within the community. AusBiotech plays a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of the biotechnology ecosystem here and I look forward to bringing my passion and skills to push for the continued support of this critical industry.”

Comments from AusBiotech Chair, Dr James Campbell:

"We are delighted to welcome Elizabeth Rex to AusBiotech.

"Elizabeth brings extensive experience in corporate affairs, stakeholder engagement, government relations, and reputation management across some of Australia's leading organisations. Her perspective will be a valuable addition to Board discussions as AusBiotech continues to advocate for policies and initiatives that support a globally competitive life sciences sector.

"CSL has played a defining role in the growth and success of Australia's biotechnology industry and remains one of our nation's most significant life sciences success stories. We look forward to strengthening our engagement with Elizabeth and CSL through this observer role."

Comments from AusBiotech CEO, Rebekah Cassidy:

“We are pleased to welcome Elizabeth Rex to the AusBiotech Board as an observer. The appointment reflects the importance of collaboration across industry, research, commercialisation, and policy.

“For almost 40 years, AusBiotech has worked to connect industry, researchers, investors, and government to support a thriving Australian life sciences sector.

“Our Board includes leaders from across our country’s thriving health innovation ecosystem. Elizabeth’s extensive corporate and strategic background will provide an important lens. I’m sure her participation as an observer will further strengthen the diverse thinking represented around our Board table.”

ENDS

Media inquiries:

Rose Petrass, AusBiotech Communications Advisor / +61 0457 867 780 / [email protected]

About AusBiotech

AusBiotech is Australia's leading national and global advocate for life sciences, working to help its more than 3500 members thrive by shaping policy, creating connections, and fostering knowledge sharing. With an unrivalled national convening power, AusBiotech supports its members’ growth by building an Australian life sciences ecosystem that leads in development and commercialisation, creating high-quality, innovative life sciences companies.