James Trezise appointed as new director of the Biodiversity Council

James Trezise, Director of the Biodiversity Council said “I am honoured to be working with many of Australia’s leading scientists, Indigenous Knowledge holders and law experts in the Biodiversity Council, and to help them achieve improvements for Australia’s biodiversity and Country.

“Australia is home to some of the most unique plants and animals on the planet and the oldest living Culture in the world.

"We are one of the few mega-diverse countries globally, but nature in Australia is under increasing threat, from habitat destruction, invasive species, inappropriate fire regimes and climate damage.

“Extinction is not an inevitable consequence of Australian progress. It’s entirely preventable, but it will take political, business and community leadership to drive meaningful change.

“Australians care about nature and want to see it protected. This is the overwhelming message from many community surveys including those undertaken by the Biodiversity Council.

“There is a huge opportunity to build on this public support, and the momentum arising out Australia’s commitments under the Global Biodiversity Framework to drive long-term and meaningful change, not just in government policy, but also in Australian businesses, and to engage communities,” said Mr Trezise.

Professor John Thwaites, Chair of the Biodiversity Council’s board said, “We are thrilled to welcome James to lead the Biodiversity Council at this critical time for nature in Australia.

“Widespread and rapid biodiversity declines are ongoing despite current laws, policies and programs.

“James’s experience in the environmental not-for-profit and public policy sectors make him an exceptional fit to lead us through the challenges ahead to achieve better outcomes for biodiversity.”

Prior to joining the Biodiversity Council James worked as Conservation Director at the Invasive Species Council, leading the organisation’s conservation programs and campaigns, including its work to safeguard Australia’s unique alpine areas from invasive species. James has also worked at the Australian Conservation Foundation, playing an integral role in the campaign to strengthen Australia’s national biodiversity laws and was closely involved in advocacy efforts to develop the global biodiversity framework. James has also held regulatory and policy roles within the federal environment department.

James has tertiary qualifications in business and environmental management. He has previously served on the boards of the Australian Committee for IUCN and the ACT Conservation Council.

The Biodiversity Council is an expert group founded by 11 Australian universities to promote evidence-based solutions to Australia’s biodiversity crisis.