Dr Paul Grimes to coordinate NSW Environment Energy and Science

Dr Paul Grimes has been appointed by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) to the role of Coordinator General Environment, Energy and Science after an extensive national search and competitive process. Dr Grimes commences his role as Coordinator General today (Monday 6th April).

NSW Environment Minister Matt Kean said Dr Grimes (pictured below) will provide strong leadership in the environment space with his long-standing experience in environment and sustainability policy.

Minister Kean noted “having worked in a number of senior roles across all tiers of government, Paul brings with him the right experience for the important work this area of Government does to preserve our environment, support our industries and contribute to a strong economy.

“Paul has previously served for many years in the Commonwealth Government as Secretary of the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities and the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, as well as Associate Secretary in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and Deputy Secretary in the Department of Finance.”

At the state and territory level, Dr Grimes has served as a Deputy Secretary in the South Australian Treasury and as Chief Executive of the ACT Treasury. Most recently, he has been based in Melbourne as the Victorian Public Sector Commissioner.

Dr Grimes will also draw on the breadth of expertise and experience of staff to manage the conservation of our environment and energy resources.

Minister Kean added “protecting our natural environment and its unique native plants and animals, delivering safe, reliable and cost-competitive energy and supporting investment in renewable energy in New South Wales has never been more important.”

The Energy and Environment portfolio and DPIE Environment, Energy and Science Group include several key responsibilities:

• Energy, Climate Change & Sustainability

• National Parks & Wildlife Service

• Biodiversity & Conservation

• Policy, Strategy & Science

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) also sits within the Environment Energy and Science Group of DPIE as an independent statutory agency. The EPA partners with business, government and the community to reduce pollution and waste, protect human health, and prevent degradation of the environment.

Minister Kean continued “I also want to thank Ms Tracy Mackey who acted in the Coordinator General role during the recruitment process and who has done an exemplary job both during the bushfire crisis and in supporting the waste and energy sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Image: NSW Budderoo National Park (top) and Dr Paul Grimes (ablove).