Joan Phillips
For outstanding public service in environmental governance and stewardship
Joan Phillips has shaped Victoria's natural resource and environment sectors over 4 decades of public service. She has demonstrated visionary leadership, innovative policy development and a deep commitment to inclusivity while consistently delivering excellence in program implementation.
In 1998, as the project leader for the Environment Conservation Council's Marine, Coastal and Estuarine Investigation, she transformed contentious public discourse into landmark legislation. This resulted in the establishment of Victoria's no-take marine national parks and sanctuaries, becoming the first representative system of its kind in Australia and setting a global benchmark in marine conservation.
Joan's leadership has fostered diversity and inclusion within the Victorian public sector. As the first woman to lead the secretariat of the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) in its 54-year history, she championed gender representation and created a thriving professional environment for her team. Under her stewardship, VEAC completed 18 major investigations and over 30 reports, shaping critical decisions on public land and environmental policy.
The broader impact of Joan's work is evident in the transformation of Victoria's parks and reserves system, strengthened environmental stewardship, and a more inclusive public service culture. Her legacy is reflected in the policies she has shaped, the teams she empowered, and the enduring protection of Victoria's natural heritage.
