Australian watchdog NOPSEMA gets new CEO

The Australian Government has appointed Stuart Smith as the new Chief Executive Officer of the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA), Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane said.

“NOPSEMA is Australia’s safety and regulatory body which oversees the operations of offshore oil and gas projects. Its role is crucial to maintaining Australia’s strong safety record and ensuring the highest of standards for workers and the environment in an industry that powers the Australian economy,” Ian Macfarlane said.

“Mr Smith has substantial safety, environmental and regulatory experience at Commonwealth and state levels and a deep understanding of both the unique operating environment of the Australian oil and gas industry, as well as global conditions.

“NOPSEMA is the one-stop shop for approvals for offshore petroleum activities in Commonwealth waters, a reform this Government put in place to streamline the approvals process and cut excessive red tape. Its focus during the next phase will be on strengthening relationships with industry stakeholders as well as confirming its place as an international leading practice regulator.”

Smith was formerly the Director General of the WA Department of Fisheries, where he was responsible for ensuring the sustainable use of aquatic resources in WA and adjacent Commonwealth waters. Previous roles included the Deputy Director General of the WA Department of Industry and Resources, with responsibility for regulating and facilitating major mining and petroleum projects, investment attraction and trade promotion.

Smith’s appointment for an initial three year term begins on 25 September 2014.

Macfarlane thanked outgoing and founding NOPSEMA Chief Executive Officer, Jane Cutler, for her dedication and contribution to improving occupational health and safety and environmental outcomes.

“Ms Cutler joined the National Offshore Petroleum Safety Authority (NOPSA) as Chief Executive Officer in 2009, and was the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of NOPSEMA from 1 January 2012.

“Ms Cutler’s strategic leadership skills have been invaluable during this term, particularly in the transition from NOPSA to NOPSEMA, as well as during the implementation of the one-stop shop approvals process.”

Related: NOPSEMA becomes sole regulator for oil & gas activities in Australia