Matt Kean’s cosy new job and Labor’s tattered climate credentials

Just over a month after Matt Kean was appointed chair of the Climate Change Authority (CCA), he has taken up a role that raises serious perceived conflict of interest concerns. The former NSW Liberal treasurer and energy minister is now also the director of strategic partnerships and regulatory affairs at Wollemi Capital, a private climate and environmental investment fund.

In other words, Kean will advise the government on climate policy while also representing a company whose profits rely on these policy settings. 

So, when did the Albanese government know this appointment was on the cards? And why isn’t it concerned?

‘Access to information’

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen defended the appointment yesterday, saying, “Under the relevant legislation, CCA members are required to have expertise in areas relevant to the authority’s important work.”