Anthony Lean, a highly experienced public sector leader with more than 15 years of senior executive experience, has been appointed Secretary of the new NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
The appointment process was led by the Secretary of the Premier’s Department, Simon Draper, in consultation with the Minister for Climate Change, Energy and Environment Penny Sharpe.
As announced in August 2023, the Department of Planning and Environment will be split into two new dedicated entities: the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The changes will take effect from 1 January 2024.
These changes have been made following a detailed review and analysis of services and programs with the aim of delivering on the NSW Government’s commitment to taking serious action climate change, keeping the lights on for households, leading the essential transition to clean renewable energy, and securing the future of water and our natural environment.
Mr Lean is currently Deputy Chief Executive at The Law Society of NSW. Prior to his current role, Mr Lean had an extensive career in leadership and legal positions within the NSW public sector, including at the Office of Environment and Heritage, State Insurance Regulatory Authority and the former NSW Department of Finance, Services and Innovation.
Mr Lean will commence as Secretary on 22 January 2024.
Kiersten Fishburn was appointed as Secretary of Department of Planning and Environment in July 2023 and will remain as Secretary of the new Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
Minister for Climate Change, Energy and the Environment Penny Sharpe said:
“I’m delighted to announce Anthony Lean as the Secretary for the new Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
“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.
“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.”
Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:
“Anthony Lean will bring a renewed focus and deep expertise to help us take action on important Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water reform.
“We want to create a government for the future not just right now. Part of that work means pulling together the right teams.
“Anthony will lead the dedicated Department and drive our vision to create a stronger, innovative and more sustainable environment for generations to come.”
Incoming Secretary Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Anthony Lean said:
“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.
“The future of our environment and our economy relies on us successfully navigating the climate and energy challenges of today.
“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.”
