The Net Zero Economy Authority Board held its inaugural meeting in the ACT on Thursday. Chair Dr Iain Ross was joined by the six board members: Tony Maher, Mike Mrdak , Michele O’Neil, Professor Robynne Quiggin, Anna Skarbek and Zoe Whitton.
Together, the Authority’s Board will guide the organisation by setting the objectives, strategies and policies, working closely with CEO David Shankey.
At its first meeting, the Board began shaping the Authority’s Corporate Plan and discussed the establishment of a Net Zero Economy Authority Stakeholder Panel. This advisory panel will comprise of individuals with expertise relevant to the Authority’s work, providing insights and recommendations.
The Authority is working to support the regions, workers, and communities most affected by Australia’s shift to a net zero emissions economy, to ensure they are empowered to anticipate and respond to the challenges and opportunities of the transition.
This involves working across government, engaging with First Nations people and local communities, and collaborating with industry to navigate this change.
The Net Zero Economy Agency was established on 1 July 2023 and stood up as an Authority on 11 December. CEO David Shankey commenced the week prior and will lead the staff of 150 in supporting Australia’s regions and their communities through the net zero transition.
A central focus of the Authority’s policy work is the Energy Industry Jobs Plan (EIJP), a key component of the Australian Government’s commitment to a just transition. Established under the legislation establishing the Net Zero Economy Authority, the EIJP provides a framework for supporting workers at eligible closing coal-fired and gas-fired power stations to transition to new employment.
The next Board meeting will be held in Collie in February.