The Western Australian Government has thanked Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) chair Matthew Tonts as he prepares to step down from the role.
Tonts joined the EPA’s board as chair in 2021 and will now take up a new position as provost of Curtin University.
Tonts will officially continue with the EPA until April, when deputy chair Lee McIntosh will take over as acting chair.
The appointment of the top job will be determined as part of the WA Government’s EPA reform process, which will include expanding the board’s membership.
“Matthew Tonts came to the role of EPA chair with significant experience in academia and higher education administration,” WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby said.
“He leaves as an accomplished and well-respected protector of WA’s environment.
“On behalf of the WA Government, I would like to thank Matthew for his contribution and services over the past three years and would like to wish him the best in what will be an exciting and challenging new role.”
Prior to his appointment, Tonts held various leadership positions at the University of WA, including pro vice chancellor, executive dean, and head of the School of Earth and Environment.
The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA (CME) also thanked Tonts for his stewardship of the regulatory agency.
“Professor Tonts has been instrumental in supporting the review of the EPA and working with CME to ensure the required efficiencies will continue to support WA’s responsible and sustainable development,” CME chief executive Rebecca Tomkinson said.
“He has been a collaborative and enthusiastic professional to deal with and on behalf of the CME and its members, I congratulate Professor Tonts on his next appointment and wish him every success.”
No word yet on prospective candidates for the position, but Tomkinson said CME looked forward to working with the EPA board under the incoming chair.
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