Welcoming two new members to the Dust Diseases Board

icare is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to our Dust Diseases Board: Dr Alix Smith and Mr James Barben.

Their deep expertise in occupational health, governance, and dust disease prevention will help strengthen the Board’s oversight and support for workers affected by dust-related conditions.

Dr Alix Smith

Nominated by the Master Builders Association of NSW, Dr Smith is a seasoned non-executive director and health policy leader with significant experience in complex regulatory environments. Alix currently also serves on icare’s Medical Assessment Panel and is a Non-Executive Director at Coal Services. Her experience spans governance, environmental risk, stakeholder engagement, and health policy - particularly in the mining and construction sectors.

She brings to the Board a strong understanding of dust exposure risks, particularly in the context of silica and asbestos, as well as a commitment to compassionate and balanced decision-making.

“I’m honoured to join the Dust Diseases Board,” said Alix.“This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to protecting the health of workers and ensuring those affected by dust diseases are supported with care and fairness.”

Mr James Barben

Mr Barben was nominated by the NSW Minerals Council and brings over 18 years of experience across the mining, energy, and policy sectors. As Director of Policy at the NSW Minerals Council, he leads key portfolios including health and safety, workforce development, and the Upper Hunter Mining Dialogue. He is also a Non-Executive Director of Coal Services and an active member of the Coal Services Standing Dust Committee.

James has worked closely with industry, government, and community stakeholders to drive health and safety reforms and is highly regarded for his practical, outcomes-focused leadership.

“I’m proud to be appointed to the Dust Diseases Board,” James said. “I look forward to working alongside fellow Board members to ensure we deliver positive outcomes, supporting those affected by occupational dust diseases.”

Both appointments reflect icare’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives of workers impacted by dust-related illness. Please join us in welcoming Alix and James to their new roles.

About the Dust Diseases Board

The Dust Diseases Board has been funding grants since 1983 with the aim of reducing the risk of dust diseases and improving outcomes for people who have a dust disease, and their families.

Between 2016 and 2024, the DDB has awarded 62 grants worth over $14.8 million to support a range of research and support initiatives.

The Dust Diseases Board is supported by a Research and Education team, whose members operate the four DDB funding streams, administer the DDB grants, and conduct and evaluate dust diseases research.

Dust Diseases Board members were appointed by the Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Work, Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis. Across the Board membership, the following groups are represented: employers; employees; support, advocacy or awareness groups or organisations; persons involved in research into dust diseases or in academic matters relating to dust diseases; health professionals; and an independent chairperson.