CEO of Infrastructure NSW, Simon Draper, has been appointed as the first permanent CEO of the newly established NSW Reconstruction Authority.
Mr Draper has held senior roles in the NSW public service over the past decade, including as Secretary of the Department of Industry and Deputy Secretary of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, and has extensive non-government experience both in Australia and internationally across the energy, infrastructure and aviation sectors.
Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the Authority is focused on better preparing NSW communities against future disasters.
“The Authority’s remit represents a unique alignment between disaster recovery and strategic planning which has not previously existed in our State, and as the CEO, Simon will be responsible for working across the Government, with industry partners and our communities,” Mr Roberts said.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said Mr Draper’s appointment marks a new approach to disaster mitigation, preparedness and recovery.
“While our emergency services organisations continue to lead the response to natural disasters, Simon and his team will focus on the crucial tasks of recovery and risk mitigation,” Ms Cooke said.
Mr Draper commences in the role today following a competitive recruitment process undertaken by the Public Service Commission.
“It is a privilege to be asked to lead the NSW Reconstruction Authority as we work with communities across the State to build more resilient places that will protect lives and property,” Mr Draper said.
The NSW Reconstruction Authority is a statutory corporation established by the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government in December 2022 in response to the recommendations of the independent Flood Inquiry.
