OBITUARY

Dr Erica Smyth died on 13/11/2025.

Dr Erica Smyth AC FTSE was elected to the Academy in 2012 in recognition of her long-standing role at the forefront of the minerals and energy industries, as well as for her leadership of broader technology-based enterprises through policy and technical innovation.

She was a very active member of ATSE’s Western Australia Division, contributing to and attending many events. She was a member of the Academy’s Energy Forum and was on the Membership Committee helping to select new Fellows from 2021 to 2023.

Widely celebrated as a trailblazer, leader, mentor, game changer for women, and friend to many across the mining and technology sector, Erica was an exploration geologist in the Pilbara in the 1970s, among the original geologists to uncover Western Australia’s iron ore deposits. From there, she went on to lead in the industry, shaping it as both a geologist and a senior business leader.

Across corporate experience, philanthropy, and support for foundations including the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Centenary Trust for Women, Erica is remembered as a passionate and committed supporter of science, technology and education as ways to uplift our society and build a better world.

Dr Erica Smyth is exceptional for her leadership of technology-based enterprises, particularly through policy and technical improvement/innovation. She is Chairman of Toro Energy (uranium), Scitech, the Diabetes Research Foundation (WA), and ScreenWest, and Director of ANSTO, EMECO Holdings Ltd (heavy earth moving equipment) and the Royal Flying Doctor Service (WA). She is an influential and inspirational advocate of the minerals and energy industries, speaking on various topics including Australia's energy options, nuclear energy, innovation, regional development, women in business, diversity, community consultation and leadership.