Dr Angeline Achariya, an Indian-origin leader at the forefront of Australia’s agriculture and sustainable food sectors, has been named among the 24 women inducted into the 2025 Victorian Honour Roll of Women.
Dr Acharya’s recognition celebrates decades of leadership, innovation, and advocacy in industries traditionally dominated by men.
In a statement Dr Achariya said she is “absolutely humbled and honoured” to be inducted into the 2025 Victorian Honour Roll of Women. Reflecting on her journey from childhood holidays on her grandparents’ farms in Fiji to leading global teams across multinationals such as Mars, Fonterra, Yum! Brands and Monash University, Dr Achariya said the recognition “belongs to everyone who believes that different perspectives create breakthrough results.”
“Australia welcomed my family’s dreams and provided the foundation for us to flourish… Our country’s greatest strength lies in embracing the diverse experiences we all bring to solving complex challenges.”
Dr Achariya has led and commercialised more than 1,200 global innovations and continues to champion inclusive leadership, mentorship and gender diversity in STEM.
With more than 20 years of experience driving change across major multinational companies, Dr Achariya has been instrumental in creating pathways that connect research and innovation to commercial and social impact.
She co-founded the Monash Food Innovation Centre, a world-first collaborative hub that unites industry, academia, and government to tackle pressing food system challenges. The centre has become a model for translating research into real-world solutions that improve sustainability, productivity, and resilience.
Dr Achariya’s influence extends across Australia’s agrifood sector. She serves on multiple advisory and governance boards, including Wine Australia, Industry Innovation and Science Australia, the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology, and the Australian China Business Council’s Victorian Agribusiness Forum.
She also chairs the G100 Mission Million Asia Pacific chapter for Food Systems Innovation & Resilience and co-hosts the popular podcast Women Transforming Food, sharing insights on leadership, innovation, and sustainability.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr Achariya is a passionate advocate for gender diversity and equity in STEM. She mentors emerging leaders across science and technology, demonstrating how women can thrive in complex, global industries. Her work has earned her recognition as a Superstar of STEM in 2025 and Women of the Decade in 2024.
Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins observed, “The Honour Roll is proof that leadership takes many forms – from the classroom to the courtroom, from healthcare
to community organising. It’s hard to be what you can’t see.”
“Every one of these women has made Victoria a better, fairer place. They’ve changed lives, inspired others and strengthened our state in ways that will last for generations.”
As an Indian-origin Australian, Dr Achariya represents the diversity and multicultural strength of Victoria, inspiring communities while breaking barriers in male-dominated fields. Her induction on the Victorian Honour Roll underscores the importance of celebrating women whose vision, dedication, and expertise shape the future of the state and beyond.
The Victorian Honour Roll of Women, established by the late Hon Joan Kirner AC, Victoria’s first female Premier, recognises women whose leadership and achievements make a lasting difference. Since its inception in 2001, more than 770 women have been honoured for their contributions across a wide range of fields, from law and healthcare to community service and innovation.
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