Speaker Biography

Dr Rachel Horne

Director Emerging Capabilities Regulation & Assurance, Australian Naval Seaworthiness Authority (prior to Nov 25 was known as Office of the Defence Seaworthiness Regulator)

Royal Australian Navy

Dr Rachel Horne is the inaugural Director of the Emerging Capabilities Regulation & Assurance Directorate (ECRA) within the Australian Naval Seaworthiness Authority, Royal Australian Navy. ECRA focusses on the regulation and assurance of emerging capabilities, including robotic and autonomous systems and nuclear-powered submarines (excluding propulsion), and is comprised of both Australian Defence Force and Australian Public Servant personnel.  

Rachel is an experienced leader and award-winning maritime lawyer and regulatory expert, with a professional background spanning defence, commercial and government spheres. Rachel holds a PhD from the Queensland University of Technology in the regulation of emerging technology, together with a Graduate Certificate in Maritime Studies from the Australian Maritime College, and a Master of Law, Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, and a Bachelor of Law with Honours from the Australian National University.