New National Policy and Public Affairs Director for Green Building Council of Australia

One of Canberra's most qualified policy experts, Dave Peebles, has been appointed to the role of National Policy and Public Affairs Director for the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

According to GBCA Chief Executive, Romilly Madew, Dave brings more than 10 years of proven experience in the government relations and policy fields, gained within both federal and state politics.

"Dave has previously worked at the ACT Legislative Assembly and at Parliament House as a policy adviser. He is passionate about environmental issues and is well positioned to drive the GBCA's advocacy efforts," Ms Madew says.

Dave assumes the role from Jeff House, who has been appointed Deputy Chief of Staff to federal Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon.

"Jeff has been instrumental in ensuring the GBCA's green building policies and positions are top of mind with all levels of government, and leaves the organisation in a very strong position," Ms Madew says.

Dave Peebles has a PhD, Master of Business Administration, Master of Education, Graduate Diploma of Arts, a law degree and an arts degree. He is currently studying environmental issues at the Australian National University.

Dave is also published author, and has written a number of opinion pieces for The Canberra Times. In April 2008, Dave was chosen as one of Australia's 'best and brightest minds', and represented Canberra at the 2020 Summit.

Prior to this, Dave spent three years in Moscow where he worked for UNICEF, the United Nations Development Program and the Russian Orphan Opportunity Fund (ROOF). ROOF provides Russian orphans with teachers and tutors to help them escape poverty.

Dave has had a distinguished career with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, working on human rights, trade and counter-terrorism. He has served as a peace monitor in Bougainville, and was awarded the Australian Service Medal.

"Commercial and residential buildings are responsible for 23 per cent of Australia's greenhouse gas emissions - so our industry is vitally important in any strategy to combat climate change," Ms Madew adds

"We are delighted to welcome such an experienced advocacy expert to our team, and look forward to continuing to work closely with government and industry to ensure that the green building movement is supported," Ms Madew concludes.

About the Green Building Council of Australia

The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) is Australia's leading authority on green building. The GBCA was established in 2002 to develop a sustainable property industry in Australia and drive the adoption of green building practices.

Contact:
Karen Jamal
Communications Manager
Green Building Council of Australia
Phone: 0412 179 135
Email: karen.jamal@gbca.org.au