A senior public servant and current deputy CEO of the Law Society of NSW has been chosen to lead the state’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
Anthony Lean’s appointment as secretary of the new department commences January 22.
He brings 15 years of public sector experience to the new role, having held senior leadership roles for the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, State Insurance Regulatory Authority and the former NSW Department of Finance, Services and Innovation.
Penny Sharpe, minister for climate change, energy and the environment, issued a statement announcing Lean’s appointment.
“We’re focused on shifting the dial on climate change and the environment while also transforming our energy system, and Anthony will lead the department into this exciting new era,” Sharpe said.
“Communities will take reassurance that under our government there will be a fit-for-purpose department with a respected leader at the helm dedicated to delivering on our ambitious aims.”
After the election of the NSW Labor government in March, a decision was made to split the Department of Planning and Environment into two new independent departments from next year.
Water minister Rose Jackson said the state government’s decision to follow through with the MOG changes was informed by a detailed review and analysis of services and programs as to how best to act on climate change, as well as transition the state to clean renewable energy, and securing the future of water and our natural environment.
“We want to create a government for the future, not just right now. Part of that work means pulling together the right teams,” Jackson said.
“Anthony will lead the dedicated department and drive our vision to create a stronger, innovative and more sustainable environment for generations to come.”
From January 1, the two new departments – the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – will officially begin their work.
Kiersten Fishburn, who was picked to lead the Department of Planning and Environment in July, will carry on in her role as head of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure after Lean takes the reins.
Commenting on his appointment, Lean said the future of the NSW environment and economy called on the government to successfully navigate today’s climate and energy challenges.
“I’m honoured to be appointed the role of secretary, which gives me the opportunity to return and make further contributions to the public sector,” Lean said.
“I look forward to working with the dedicated and talented staff of the new department to deliver on the government’s climate and energy agenda and make a positive difference for communities.”
