WA Environment Minister, Reece Whitby, has welcomed Stuart Smith as the new Director General of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
He has also been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, Rottnest Island Authority and Zoological Parks Authority.
The Minister said Mr Smith (pictured) brings a wealth of experience to the position, having spent three decades in State and Commonwealth public service roles. For eight years, he was the chief executive of Australia’s offshore energy regulator, the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority, appointed in 2014.
He served as the Director General of the Department of Fisheries for six years. He has also worked for the Western Australian Department of Industry and Resources and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
“I congratulate Stuart Smith on his appointment. His extensive experience will be invaluable in leading the department into the future,” said Minister Whitby.
“Mr Smith is highly qualified and his expertise will be a strong asset to continue the success of the agency. I look forward to working together to achieve positive environmental outcomes for our State.
He replaces Mark Webb PSM who retired at the end of last year, after four decades of public service. His five-year term starts on 10 July 2023.
“I would like to thank DBCA’s Deputy Director General Peter Dans for all his hard work acting in the role over the past six months during the recruitment process,” said Mr Whitby.
