Chair of the independent Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Professor Matthew Tonts has resigned to take on the role of Curtin University’s new Provost.
Professor Tonts said he was proud of his time leading the Authority through some of the most complex assessment and policy challenges in its 50-year history.
“Western Australia’s environmental impact assessment process under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 leads the nation on the assessment and regulation of greenhouse gas emissions from significant proposals,” he said. “And the strategic advice we delivered on Exmouth Gulf has strengthened the protection of one of the State’s most valuable assets.
“The EPA’s commitment to drawing attention to the importance of urban biodiversity has also been front and centre of our assessment work, engagement with stakeholders and public advice, and has helped shape environmental outcomes.”
Professor Tonts said that being proactive with pieces of work such as the EPA’s Greater Brixton Street Wetlands public advice would help stem further loss in some of State’s most unique examples of biodiversity.
“I have been extremely fortunate to be supported by a collegial Board and a dedicated and knowledgeable team of officers in the EPA Services directorate,” he said. “This new opportunity at Curtin University is a chance to play a leading role at one of the largest and most dynamic universities in the country.
“I have always had a strong commitment to higher education and its capacity to change lives and influence future leaders.
“The experiences and knowledge I have garnered during my time as Chair will most certainly better equip me for the challenges ahead.”
Professor Tonts will continue in the role – alongside EPA colleagues Fiona Haslam McKenzie, Hamish Beck, Darren Walsh and Deputy Chair Lee McIntosh – until 26 April.
EPA Media Contact: jenni.storey@dwer.wa.gov.au 0434 734 997
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