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Michael Schwager
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As Director General since 2018, Michael has led IP Australia on a customer-focused, digital-first strategy. As well as seeing unprecedented growth in IP rights during the pandemic, IP Australia has been a test bed of public sector innovation and digital transformation. Prior to his appointment, Michael spent three years as Chief Operating Officer at the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science. He also spent time as acting Chief Operating Officer at CSIRO. Michael’s career across industry, innovation and science policy has included responsibility for implementing innovation programs including the $3B R&D tax incentive; developing med-tech, pharma-bio, small business and industry policy; attracting foreign investment into Australian high-tech industries; leading trade and multilateral negotiations in food, agriculture and energy. From 2012 to 2015, Michael was Minister-Counsellor (Industry, Science and Education) at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC. He also spent five years in Parliament House as a researcher and speechwriter, and two years as an auditor for a large multinational accounting firm. Michael has a Bachelor of Economics and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. |
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Margaret Tregurtha
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Before joining IP Australia in 2020, Margaret was A/G First Assistant Secretary of Legal and Compliance in the former Department of Environment and Energy. In July 2023 Margaret became the sole Deputy Director General of IP Australia. |