John Southwell

John is Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner responsible for food and beverage (including wine), agricultural and consumer products into India and south Asia. He is based in Mumbai.

Prior to his appointment he held numerous roles in the Australian public service including most recently Principal Director in the Trade Reform Division of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. He was previously Counsellor (Agriculture) in New Delhi working to further the interests of the Australian agricultural sector in India and south Asia, including driving negotiations with India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh to improve terms of trade for Australian agricultural produce including wine, fruit, grains, pulses and oilseeds.

John has a legal background and his diverse career has provided him with deep experience in strategic policy, regulatory practice, agricultural trade and biosecurity issues. He is originally from Narrabri and enjoys rowing, music, gardening and cooking.