COMMISSIONER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT ACT 1993

EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

NO.       166 of 2007

Outline

Section 4(1) of the Commissioner for the Environment Act 1993 states that there shall be a Commissioner for the Environment appointed by instrument by the Minister.

The Commissioner holds office on such terms and conditions (if any) in respect of matters not provided for by the Act as are determined by instrument by the Minister. 
The Commissioner may be appointed for a period not exceeding five years.

Mr Darro Stinson has extensive and authoritative experience in environmental policy and natural resource management issues.  Mr Stinson was chosen to fill the role on a temporary basis whilst the role and functions of the Office are reviewed in order to address sustainability reporting.

The previous Commissioner, Dr Rosemary Purdie resigned from the position on 
21 December 2006.

As the appointment is for a period of less than 6 months it does not require referral to the Standing Committee on Planning and Environment.