From NRAR to New York: Phil Duncan to protect NSW waters for 3 more years
Phil Duncan has lived, breathed and protected NSW waters for more than 30 years and the good news is there’s plenty more to come. The Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) is delighted to announce Mr Duncan’s reappointment to the regulator’s independent board for 3 more years.
Born in Moree, Mr Duncan is a proud Kamilaroi man, with strong bloodline connections to Wiradjuri. He is a highly respected figure in water policy and management at state, national and international levels. His reappointment comes at a time when his star is shining brightly. He heads soon to the big apple to speak at the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York from 22-24 March.
Mr Duncan’s efforts to foster and enhance international cultural collaborations have already seen him win high commendation at last year’s COP27 summit in Egypt and at World Water Week in Stockholm. Adding to a remarkable 2022, Griffith University recognised his contribution to the water space last June with an honorary degree of Doctor of the University.
"I hope my leadership reflects my ancestors, my community, my family and my Nation.” Duncan says. “It’s my hope that what I contribute to the NSW water regulator right now will energise our bright Indigenous youth to build upon the foundations being laid by the NRAR Board.”
NRAR’s first Indigenous board member lists lifting the cultural capacity and confidence of staff as high on his list of key achievements since joining in 2020. Protecting culturally significant sites from the damage of flood works or other floodplain modifications is another major achievement. As is seeing more Indigenous staff shape key water decisions in NSW, which he says always puts a smile on his face.
NRAR’s Chief Regulator Officer, Grant Barnes says it was essential Mr Duncan’s knowledge was retained on the board.
“One of our enduring priorities is to protect and prioritise Aboriginal cultural and spiritual values in water regulation and Phil’s leadership is at the core of this work.
He has an impressive set of skills, having made sustained and significant contributions to water policy and management in NSW while advocating to improve the lives of indigenous people.”
“Phil brings a wealth of experience in providing high-level policy and strategic advice, and valued leadership to not only NRAR but also to our partner organisations, universities, and other state and federal government agencies.” Barnes added.
NRAR was established in 2018 to ensure compliance with NSW water laws. The independent water regulator is directed by its independent board which is responsible for decisions about compliance and enforcement actions.
The board consists of four independent part-time members that serve 3-year terms. All members must have a high level of expertise in law, natural resources management, compliance and regulation, or other relevant areas. The board is appointed by Cabinet on advice from the Minister for Lands and Water. The NRAR Act enshrines the regulator’s independence by limiting ministerial direction to matters of a general nature and only if in the public interest to do so. Such directions may not relate to a specific matter that is being considered or determined by the regulator.
Watch this video to hear Phil discuss his cultural connection to water.
