Tonts appointed EPA chair

University of Western Australia academic Matthew Tonts has been appointed chair of the Environmental Protection Authority.

Since 2017, Professor Tonts has been pro vice-chancellor and executive dean of UWA’s Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Education, and was formerly head of the School of Earth and Environment at the university and Director of the Institute for Regional Development.

He is known for his expertise in environmental geography, regional environments, rural communities and spatial planning.

In 2020, Professor Tonts was elected a fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia.

Environment Minister Stephen Dawson said Professor Tonts would bring a wealth of experience to the role and would lead a valuable force in environmental impact assessment in WA.

Mr Dawson thanked Tom Hatton who completed his term as chair last month.

Professor Tonts will begin his role on January 18 2021.

He joins deputy chair Lee McIntosh and board members Fiona McKenzie, Glen McLeod and Jenny Pope on the EPA board.