Justine Jarvinen takes the helm as new chair for Port Authority of NSW

JUSTINE Jarvinen’s appointment as the Port Authority of New South Wales board chair is said to come at an important time for the organisation as its focuses on its Strategy 2030 vision.

Already a board director, Ms Jarvinen’s appointment was announced this week.

"Ms Jarvinen, known as "JJ", has served on the Port Authority board since April 2022 and brings a wealth of experience in governance, sustainability, infrastructure and strategic leadership,” said chief executive John McKenna.

"Her appointment as chair reflects her strong contribution to Port Authority over recent years and I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to deliver safe, sustainable and efficient port and maritime services for New South Wales."

Mr McKenna also acknowledged outgoing chair David Marchant AM for his “significant contribution” to the key body.

"David's leadership, expertise and commitment have helped guide Port Authority through a period of significant progress.

"During his tenure, Port Authority strengthened its strategic direction, advanced major sustainability initiatives, supported strong operational and financial performance, and laid the foundations for the organisation's next phase of growth through Strategy 2030.

"On behalf of the organisation, I thank David for his outstanding service and contribution."

Ms Jarvinen's appointment is said to mark the start of “a new chapter” for the Port Authority as its seeks to support trade, tourism and maritime operations across New South Wales, while progressing its sustainability agenda.

Ms Jarvinen has held executive, advisory and governance roles with organisations including Exxon, Shell, Caltex, JBWere and AGL Energy, and is currently Principal of Finncorn Consulting and a director of the UNSW Foundation.

In other news, Port Authority of NSW has announced the 11 organisations selected to receive funding through the 2026 round of its Community Grants program.

The grants will support projects focused on community connection, environmental protection, cultural celebration, safety and skills development.

Mr McKenna said the program reflected the organisation’s commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates.

“We’re proud to support the people and grassroots organisations who are making a real difference in their local communities,” Mr McKenna said.

“The strength of applications this year reflects the passion, innovation and commitment within our port communities, and we congratulate all successful recipients.

“These grants are one of the many ways we invest in the communities where we operate - supporting initiatives that create lasting social, environmental and economic value close to our ports.”

Now in its second year, the Port Authority Community Grants program backs locally led projects designed to reflect the character of each port and help build stronger, more connected and resilient communities across NSW.

Recipients of the Port Authority 2026 Community Grants are:

Newcastle

• Hunter Science and Innovation Hub

• Awabakal Ltd

• Newcastle Tourism Industry Group

Eden

• Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA)

• Eden Whale Festival Committee

Port Kembla / Illawarra

• Goats Creek Longboarders Inc.

• FareShare Australia

Sydney / Port Botany

• Kogarah Community Services

• 2nd Abbotsford ‘Port Neptune’ Sea Scouts

• Making Waves Foundation

• Co-Hive Foundation Port Botany