Kate Fitzgerald has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, following a competitive recruitment process.

With an extensive career spanning the full emergency management spectrum, including senior executive and CEO positions in both the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments, Ms Fitzgerald returns to her home state almost 25 years after first joining the NSW SES as a volunteer.

As CEO, Ms Fitzgerald will lead disaster recovery and preparedness efforts across New South Wales, ensuring communities are better supported to rebuild and become more resilient in the face of future events.

Ms Fitzgerald’s appointment follows Kate Meagher, who led the NSW Reconstruction Authority as interim CEO while recruitment was underway. The role was made vacant after Mal Lanyon became the state’s 24th Police Commissioner. Ms Fitzgerald will start in the role on 9 February 2026

Established in December 2022, the NSW Reconstruction Authority works proactively to reduce the impact of floods, fires and other major disasters, while coordinating recovery efforts to ensure communities can rebuild stronger.

More information about the NSW Reconstruction Authority and its preparedness and recovery programs is available at https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority.

Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said, “Kate’s passion, commitment and extensive experience in disaster management and community safety equip her well to lead the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

“Just like the thousands of people around our state, who don uniforms out of a sense of duty to their community, Kate started on the frontline as a NSW SES volunteer.

“From these humble beginnings, she has built a remarkable career which has taken her into some of the most senior leadership positions in the country.

“Her leadership will be invaluable as NSW continues long-term recovery efforts and strengthens preparedness for the increasing frequency and severity of disasters.

“I want to thank Mal Lanyon for his leadership in supporting communities to recover from the Northern Rivers floods and other disasters over the last two years. Kate is the perfect person to carry this legacy forward.”

“I also acknowledge and thank all NSW Reconstruction Authority staff for their dedication to supporting communities in preparedness and recovery right across our state.”

Incoming CEO, Kate Fitzgerald said, “Starting out as an SES volunteer in this state taught me the foundations of public service – community, commitment and stepping up when it matters most.  

“To return now and lead the NSW Reconstruction Authority with all that I have learned is truly an honour. 

“I am looking forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, partners and the communities we serve.

“Together, we can build on our agency’s strengths and continue to grow the resilience of our state – ensuring that every community is better prepared, better supported and better connected for the challenges ahead.”