The State Council sets NPA’s strategic direction and policy, co-ordinates conservation responses, and helps strengthen our network of local branches and groups. It comprises activist members from diverse parts of the State, including:
- delegates elected by branches
- conveners of State Council committees
- members of the Executive
- additional appointed members.
The State Council is a great way to meet and network with fellow conservationists, whilst developing your skills in the environment sector.
Meetings are held 4 times per year on Saturdays usually online. Occasionally they are held in person and combined with a Sunday activity or inspection guided by local experts. Travel and accommodation expenses are reimbursed.
How to become a State Council member
- Become a branch delegate. Contact your local branch committee.
- Become a committee convenor. NPA has specialist groups on landscape conservation, park management and field activities. Contact the NPA President for further information.
- Become an Executive member. This is an elected position. Nominations close around the end of each September. Find out more
- Become an appointed member. Additional members are sought with a keen interest in advancing conservation outcomes. Find out more
Specialist Groups and Committees
Each specialist group operates at a broad State-wide scale, but works within its particular specialty. The scope of activities may include designing or implementing specific programs or projects, monitoring current issues, preparing responses to government proposals, and providing specialist policy advice to the Executive and State Council.
Field Activities Committee (FAC)
The group coordinates the Activities Program, and provides related specialist advice and recommendations to the State Council and the Executive.
The Activities Program supports NPA’s mission for promoting nature appreciation. Its scope includes a variety of nature-based activities, such as bushwalking, camping, canoeing, cycling, skiing, canyoning, snorkelling, art, photography, nature study and field surveys. Important issues dealt with by the group include health, safety, training, leadership and minimal impact.
Convenor: Richard Bennett
Key staff contact: Samantha Newton, Operations
Landscape Conservation Forum (LCF)
The group provides specialist advice and recommendations to the State Council and the Executive relating to landscape conservation, and prepares related proposals and submissions. It undertakes an evidence-based approach to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage at regional and landscape scales. This provides a well-supported basis for proposals for new protected areas, corridors and other supporting conservation measures.
Convenor: Warwick Pearse
Staff contact: Gary Dunnett, CEO
Park Management Committee (PMC)
The group provides specialist advice and recommendations to the State Council and the Executive relating to the management of protected areas, and also prepares related policies and submissions. It promotes appropriate development controls and management practices, reviews existing and proposed management plans, reviews relevant legislation and planning instruments, and undertakes regular consultation with NPWS and other relevant agencies.
Convenor: Ross McDonnell
Staff Contact: Gary Dunnett, CEO