The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) has appointed Kate Cornick, the outgoing CEO of Victoria's startup agency LaunchVic, as its new Chief Executive Officer. This significant leadership change was announced at the industry group's annual general meeting, marking a new chapter for the nation's peak technology body. Cornick is set to commence her new role on May 5, 2026, bringing a decade of experience from fostering Victoria's startup ecosystem.
A Strategic Leadership Transition
Cornick's appointment is the culmination of an extensive, Australia-wide executive search conducted by Hourigan. She succeeds Damian Kassabgi, who announced his departure in October 2025 to better balance his professional commitments with his young family based in regional Australia. Kassabgi will not be leaving the organization entirely, instead transitioning into a new capacity as a special adviser to the board.
In the interim, Cornick will continue to work closely with the LaunchVic board and the Victorian state government. Her focus will be on supporting a smooth transition as the startup agency merges with the state's technology investment fund, Breakthrough Victoria. This process ensures continuity and stability for the state's innovation sector as she prepares to take the helm at the national level.
A Proven Record of Innovation
During her tenure at LaunchVic, Cornick established a formidable reputation for driving growth and transformation within the technology landscape. LaunchVic chair Leigh Jasper praised her leadership, noting that under her guidance, startup creation in Victoria grew significantly and the venture capital environment was transformed. He highlighted that her deep sector expertise and strong relationships across industry and government are widely respected.
TCA chair and Atlassian co-founder Scott Farquhar echoed these sentiments, expressing confidence in Cornick's capabilities. He stated that her decade leading LaunchVic will see her bring valuable skills and experience from across the startup ecosystem, as well as in commercialisation, investment, and government collaboration. Farquhar also thanked the outgoing CEO, noting Kassabgi leaves the TCA in a strong operational position after securing key policy wins.
Fortifying the Council's Board
The annual general meeting also saw other key appointments aimed at strengthening the TCA's governance and strategic direction. Brighte founder and CEO Katherine McConnell was appointed to the board, a move welcomed by the council's leadership. Farquhar commented that McConnell's record on tech-based innovation and passion for sustainability will be a valuable addition, bringing fresh perspectives and experience to the board's deliberations.
Alongside the new appointments, the council reaffirmed its existing leadership structure by reappointing Scott Farquhar as a director of the board for another three-year term. This decision provides stability and continuity as the organization navigates its next phase of growth under a new CEO. The combined expertise of the refreshed board positions the TCA to continue its influential advocacy work effectively.
Advancing Australia's Tech Ambitions
The Tech Council of Australia serves as the peak industry body for the nation's technology sector, with a mission to establish Australia as a global leader in the field. Its membership includes some of the country's most prominent and innovative companies, such as Atlassian, Canva, Google, and Microsoft. The organization plays a crucial role in shaping a policy environment that fosters innovation, growth, and job creation.
Kate Cornick's appointment as CEO signals a strategic move for the Tech Council of Australia, leveraging her extensive experience to further its mission. Her proven ability to cultivate innovation and collaborate across public and private sectors will be vital as the TCA continues to advocate for the industry. This leadership transition positions the council to build on its recent successes and drive Australia's technology sector toward a more prosperous future.